Police deploys in Yambio ahead of festive season

December 20, 2016 (YAMBIO) – The local government ministry in Gbudue, one of South Sudan’s new states, has instructed organized forces to protect citizens and properties during the festive season.

Speaking to hundreds of the organised forces, Jackson Ezekiel, the minister of local government said overall security would be tightened during the celebrations to make sure there is peace in the state.

“In fact this morning, we had a parade, it was organized by all heads of the organized forces and we have gathered them in one place to give them a go ahead on how to protect the civilians and their properties during this Christmas and New Year,” he said.

“Criminals committing crimes will be dealt with according to orders to the police by the President of South Sudan and the state government doesn’t have prison to keep thieves and rebels,” he added.

Heavy deployment, the official told Sudan Tribune, will mainly be in Yambio town and its surrounding areas during the festive seasons.

He further cautioned those in possession of guns not to shoot in the air to celebrate Christmas and the New Year, while vowing to arrest and prosecute anyone who violates regulations set by authorities.

Police has also instructed the organized forces to restrict movement of commercial cyclists to between 8pm and 6 am, and any vehicle found to be moving in the night must be searched for weapons.

The state has, in recent, months faced security threats from armed elements operating in Yambio county and parts of Western Equatoria state.

(ST)