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Additional security forces deployed to Juba to maintain order: officials

Author: Obaj Okuj | Published: January 17, 2025

SSPDF Spokesperson Maj. Gen. Lul Ruai Koang Addresses Thursday’s Army Clashes at Gen. Akol Koor’s Residence – Credit: Lou Nelson/Eye Radio, November 22, 2024

Security officials have assured the public of the armed forces’ readiness to maintain order following unrest in Juba on Thursday, in which young people protested and engaged in looting targeting Sudanese-owned shops.

The army spokesperson confirmed the deployment of additional personnel in various residential areas, particularly those most affected by the disturbances.

Sudanese traders closed their shops on Thursday evening fearing retaliatory attacks for the reports of killings against South Sudanese citizens in Sudan’s Al-Jazeera state.

The South Sudanese citizens were killed allegedly by elements of the Sudanese Armed Forces (SAF) after retaking Wad Madani city from paramilitary Rapid Support Forces (RSF).

Members of the organized forces positioned at market places and major roads in Juba responded by firing shots in different locations to contain the situation.

In an interview with Eye Radio on Friday, Maj. Gen. Lul Ruai Koang said security forces issued a strict warning to those contemplating violence or other subversive activities.

“In regards to responding to what happened last night, we deployed massively in different residential areas, especially the most affected residential areas, and we were able to ensure that the situation doesn’t get out of hand,” he said.

“We will be giving an up-to-date report on what had happened in each residential area Once we receive that information from our operations commander, who was on night duty, then I will inform the nation through your platform.”

“My message to those who are contemplating carrying out acts of violence and other subversive activities, the security forces are on standby and they will respond accordingly, and whoever is thinking about it should refrain.”

Meanwhile, Police Spokesperson John Kassara also emphasized increased security in Juba’s major markets to prevent further unrest, urging the public to stay calm.

“I came to the office just recently because I went to the ICT to collect more information from my boss, but he is a bit busy, so I’m still collecting more information once I get them, then I will let you know.”

“We actually increased the number of forces deployed yesterday in most of the major markets within Juba town. So My message is to advise our people not to get panicked and also not to carry on a violent protest.”

Further updates on the situation are expected as authorities continue to collect information and assess the impact of last night’s events.

 

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