Joint security forces assemble at the Buluk police playground in Juba on December 19, 2024, as part of their deployment to ensure safety during the festive season. - Credit: Lou Nelson/Eye Radio

The Joint Security Command has warned ‘drunk’ members of the armed forces against random shooting to celebrate the New Year celebrations as the deployment of organized forces commenced in Juba ahead of the occasion.

Over the years, security forces have repeatedly appealed to the public to abstain from the practice as the rugged terrain of Juba makes it unsafe for celebratory gunfire.

In January 2022, four people were injured in random shootings in Juba to celebrate the new year, leading to an investigation and arrests.

Speaking to forces during a parade on Monday, Inspector General of Police Gen. Abraham Peter Manyuat has emphasized the crucial role of organize forces in ensuring maximum security in the city.

“We know that there are some of our colleagues from organized forces who are not on duty, staying in their houses. Then when they get drunk, they start firing guns randomly. This must stop,” he said.

He directed that anyone found to be engaged in celebratory gunfire on new year will be immediately arrested and disarmed of their weapons.

“They should be detained in their unit, and will not get back their guns because they is not responsible. We are saying nobody should shoot the gun, so we don’t want to listen to any gun sound ever.”

Manyuat further acknowledged efforts of the organized forces in ensuring a peaceful Christmas celebration and removing all roadblocks along the major highways.