Security Sweep in Jonglei State
Security units in Bor Town have launched a coordinated disarmament drive, restricted to urban streets and markets. County commissioner Samuel Ateny Pech insists the mission seeks only illegal firearms, echoing a recent security meeting that ruled out operations in neighbouring payams and villages.
Army chief Gen. Paul Nang last week branded the Red Belt youth movement a threat to national security and pledged to dismantle it as part of wider efforts to recover weapons across South Sudan.
Why Target the Red Belt
The Red Belt emerged recently, presenting itself as a protector of cattle camps against raids. Authorities, however, say the outfit morphed into a criminal web linked to robbery, extortion and attacks on officials, including an ambush on a convoy that carried Commissioner Pech.
Pech said he first formed a dialogue committee to engage the group, but talks collapsed after the incident, prompting national forces to intervene.
Civilian Concerns and Safeguards
Local civil society cautiously backs the sweep. Bol Deng Bol of the Jonglei Civil Society Network argues that removing guns must be coupled with ‘tangible security measures’ to shield communities and livestock.
Residents such as Peter Ajak Ayom fear mistaken arrests. They urge clear identification of suspects and continued protection of homes and herds throughout the operation.
Regional Perspective on Arms Control
The Bor campaign aligns with South Sudan’s broader attempt to curb the civilian gun spread that fuels localised violence. Analysts note that peaceful, lawful disarmament in a strategic town like Bor could set a template for future interventions elsewhere.
For now, officials emphasise patience. ‘There should be no panic,’ Pech reassures, as security forces move door-to-door with strict lists of wanted names.