The Inspector General of Police has approved the recruitment of 1,200 new police officers across all counties of Western Equatoria State, following concerns over severe shortages of personnel affecting policing and public safety in the region.

According to police spokesperson Major General Daniel Justin, the decision followed a high-level meeting in Juba between the Inspector General of Police and the Governor of Western Equatoria State, Daniel Badagbu Rimbasa.

Governor Badagbu reportedly briefed the police leadership on ongoing security and law enforcement challenges in the state, highlighting the limited number of officers available to maintain law and order across its ten counties.

Major General Daniel Justin said the governor formally requested support for recruitment and training to strengthen policing capacity.

“During a meeting with the governor of Western Equatoria, they discussed issues related to the work of the police in the state and how the IGP supports the state police to carry out their functions successfully in protecting the people of Western Equatoria,” said Major General Daniel Justin.

“The governor raised the issue of lack of police. The number is very few in the state and he was concerned about the need for new recruits. The Inspector General has agreed and approved recruitment.”

He added that the approved exercise will aim to expand police presence across all ten counties of the state.

On his part, Governor Badagbu—who paid a courtesy visit to the Inspector General on Friday—welcomed the decision and praised the role of the police in improving security.

“To brief him extensively on the security of Western Equatoria, especially on the administrative ways the police is working together in the state, and to share some of the success stories we have in Western Equatoria,” the governor said.

“What the police is doing in bringing peace, creating harmony among the people, and protecting people and their property is commendable.”

The governor added that strengthening the police force through recruitment will help improve law enforcement and contribute to lasting peace and stability across Western Equatoria State.

The announcement was made through the South Sudan Broadcasting Corporation.