SSPDF Spokesperson Maj. General Lul Ruai Koang speaks on Eye Radio's Dawn Show. June 9, 2023. | Photo: Awan Moses/Eye Radio

South Sudan army spokesperson said Saturday the heavy deployment of security forces in the streets of Juba was a pre-emptive measure to curb increasing cases of robbery in the capital.

On Friday evening social media sources alleged tension was mounting in Juba after security forces were seen cordoning off major streets.

But South Sudan People’s Defense Force Spokesperson Major General Lul Ruai Koang said the deployment was an ordinary procedure to safeguard public assets.

“What happened yesterday (Friday) is not more than our normal security patrolling that we usually put in place to ensure that the peace in Juba is protected and the businesses,” he told Eye Radio in a telephone interview.

General Lul admitted that security in the capital was “a bit tightened”, adding that the decision followed an increased rate of armed robberies and looting of motorbikes in the city.

“The security situation was a little bit tightened after the increase of night armed robberies and hijacking of motorbikes. So, it was just a show of force to let the criminals know that we have what it takes to get them wherever they are.”

He reiterated an appeal by National Police Spokesperson Daniel Justin, to Juba residents not to panic over the rumors of tension.

“The citizens of Juba, have no reason to worry because as you can see, and based on your observation, everything got back to normal. That means there is nothing because if it was substantial it has to continue up to today.”