Security forces in Eastern Equatoria State have been directed to shoot to kill suspected criminals on the Kapoeta-Torit highway.

Two travelers were killed during an ambush on the highway on Tuesday.

There have been reports of similar attacks on the road within the last few months, including the killing of four passengers in July.

“Any individual I find walking with a gun will die. Don’t say it’s a [directive from the] governor. It’s the army. I am talking as an army,” said Col Wuor James, commander in charge of the patrol forces.

“This road is not for Eastern Equatoria but the national gov’t is responsible for it.”

Officials say one of the areas with highest number of attacks along the road is Hiyala.

Governor Louis Lobong has been to the area to urge people to give up arms and support peace.

There are reports that the SPLM in Opposition forces have captured some military bases in the area.

But Mr Louis says this is not true.

“We have conducted a lot of talk with the population and enlighten them about the danger of war or inviting insecurity in your own areas,” he told Eye Radio.

Mr Lobong has asked traditional leaders to take charge of security in their villages and work with the patrol forces to reduce what he calls criminal activities.

“The population in most of the rallies pledged their support and they vowed to make sure that they enlighten their youth to distance themselves from the rebellion.”