Missile launcher mounted

Security has been tightened around Juba town and international borders ahead of the second anniversary of Independence Day, according to the SPLA.

SPLA spokesperson Col Philip Aguer told Eye Radio yesterday that proper security measures have been put in place to protect dignitaries and the borders of South Sudan.

“There are committees that are doing those preparations, but in term of security, the security is normal and quiet. At the international borders level, the security is quiet.

“At the level of town…it is the same thing; where the celebration will take place, security is tight, and it will be just as a usual celebration that will go on smoothly.”

According Col Aguer, security arrangements will include blocking some major roads before the day of celebration.

In Jonglei,

As the country marks the second anniversary, hundreds of civilians from the state are still harboring in the neighboring Ethiopia, Kenya and Uganda due to insecurity in the state.

The UN reports that thousands have fled Pibor County and part of greater Bor and Akobo over rebel attacks, child abductions and recurrent cattle raids.

Last month, aid organizations raised concern over clashes between government forces and rebels of David Yau Yau.

The fighting has made delivery of food and health supplies difficult.

“Police contingents have been deployed throughout the state to allow citizens to celebrate the event in a peaceful environment,” Jonglei state deputy governor Hussein Maar Nyuot told Eye Radio today.

“I just want to assure the public that there is proper security mechanisms put in place, and let them come out in large numbers in order to celebrate their independence,” Hon. Nyuot added.

“Security is properly taken care of.”

Mr. Nyuot said the government is still persuading David Yau Yau to abandon his rebellion so that Jonglei state can experience stability.