Adil Orders Statewide Patrols Before New Year Celebrations

(JUBA) – The Governor of Central Equatoria State, Emmanuel Adil Anthony, has ordered heightened security measures across the state as New Year celebrations approach, with a focus on Juba city and surrounding areas.

The decision followed an emergency security briefing convened by the governor with commanders from all security organs on Wednesday. The meeting reviewed the security situation and agreed on increased patrols and deployments to deter crime during and after the festive period.

Governor Adil called on all security personnel to maintain high standards of professionalism as they carry out their duties. He also appealed to residents to cooperate with security forces to help ensure a peaceful transition into the New Year. He said public support would be critical to the success of the security plan and to maintaining calm across Central Equatoria.

State officials said the meeting unveiled a comprehensive security strategy aimed at preventing criminal activity, crowd related incidents and disorder during celebrations. Security patrols have been reinforced in public areas, residential neighbourhoods and along key roads within Juba and its outskirts.

The Central Equatoria State Security Committee later confirmed its readiness to provide safety across the state during the festive period. The committee said security forces have been placed on alert and will respond swiftly to any incidents that threaten public order.

In a related development, the State Security Committee held its ordinary meeting on Tuesday, chaired by Governor Adil, to review the general security situation across Central Equatoria. The committee noted that security conditions remain generally calm, with only a few isolated incidents that are under control.

During the meeting, members discussed issues related to public order, revenue collection and security preparations for the New Year celebrations. The committee directed security organs to take firm action against individuals illegally collecting taxes in markets, stressing that such practices undermine public trust and economic stability.

The committee also warned against celebratory gunfire during the New Year period and instructed both civilians and security personnel to refrain from such actions. It said security forces would be deployed to prevent spree shootings and to protect lives and property.

Attention was also given to conflict related concerns within the state. The committee called for immediate investigations into cattle related clashes between herders from Bor and Mundari communities in Reggo area of Terekeka County, which reportedly led to loss of lives. Authorities said findings from the investigations would guide further action to prevent similar incidents.

In addition, the committee resolved to strengthen cooperation with the Democratic Republic of Congo to address border related concerns affecting Morobo County. Officials said joint engagement with neighbouring authorities would help reduce tensions and improve cross border security.

Key security actions ahead of the New Year