Firearms Ban Tested in Bor Town
A quiet Thursday afternoon shifted abruptly at 2:40 p.m. when security personnel stationed near Langar Baar confronted a group of armed civilians. The officers were enforcing a Jonglei State directive that forbids anyone, civilian or uniformed, from carrying weapons inside Bor municipality without prior clearance.
Pursuit Ends in Deadly Exchange
When ordered to surrender their rifles, the group reportedly sped toward the Arek neighborhood. According to police spokesperson 1st Lieutenant Akech Mapiou Dau, the fleeing men opened fire during the chase, killing one officer. Return fire left three suspected gunmen fatally wounded amid startled residents.
Possible Red Belt Connection Under Review
Local authorities suspect the civilians belonged to the outlawed Red Belt vigilante movement, recently labeled a rebel faction by the South Sudan People’s Defence Forces. Investigators are gathering ballistic evidence and eyewitness testimony to confirm identities and clarify whether a coordinated infiltration of the town was underway.
Security Reassurances and Community Response
Lieutenant Akech affirmed that calm has been restored, adding, “No unauthorized weapon will enter Bor; checkpoints remain firm.” Community elders echo the call for restraint, urging young men to resolve grievances through dialogue rather than arms. Residents reported heavier patrols overnight but normal commercial activity resumed by morning.