SSPDF Division 6 Orders Illegal Gun Holders in Tambura to Surrender Arms
In a bid to curb insecurity and violence in Tambura County of Western Equatoria State, the South Sudan People Defence Force (SSPDF) Division 6 has issued a strict directive calling on individuals in possession of illegal firearms to surrender their weapons immediately.
Division Commander Maj. Gen. James Akech delivered the order, emphasizing the importance of maintaining peace and security within the region. He urged residents of the Balanda and Azande communities to cooperate by handing over any unregistered guns to the authorities to avoid forceful disarmament measures.
“Any individual found in possession of illegal firearms must surrender them to the SSPDF Division 6 without delay. Failure to comply will result in forceful search and disarmament operations,” stated Maj. Gen. Akech.
Acknowledging the gravity of the situation, County Commissioner Mathew Mabenge expressed concerns about the magnitude of the task at hand. He cited the advice of the security committee, cautioning against immediate arrests of offenders to prevent potential escalation of insecurity in the area.
“I cannot arrest the perpetrators at this moment due to the large number of individuals involved. This could lead to further unrest. Instead, we will collaborate closely with the joint security committee to address this issue effectively,” reassured Commissioner Mabenge.
The deployment of SSPDF Division 6 in Tambura County aims to safeguard the local population, preserve property, and restore tranquility to the region. Recent incidents of violence, including killings, displacement, and the disappearance of Catholic priest Luke Yugue and his driver, have underscored the pressing need for enhanced security measures in the area.
As tensions mount and concerns over safety persist, the call for disarmament serves as a critical step towards promoting stability and protecting the well-being of Tambura’s residents. The cooperation of community members and local authorities will be instrumental in realizing a peaceful and secure environment for all.
