The Jonglei State government has announced a ban on the carrying of guns and metallic pipes often used as sticks by youth in Bor Town, citing them as a threat to public safety.
The state security committee also resolved to prohibite civilians from wearing uniforms belonging to organized forces.
This decision was made during a security meeting chaired by the state governor, Dr.Riek Gai Kok, who also serves as the chairperson of the state security committee.
According to the order issued by Governor Kok, the state leadership observed that some youth in Bor Town were moving around with firearms and metallic pipes, especially in public areas like Marol Market.
“Some youth are often seen during the daytime carrying metallic pipes as sticks within Marol Market in Bor Town, which poses a danger to the public,” Governor Kok stated.
He directed organized forces, including the National Security Service, State Police, SSPDF Military Police, and local block leaders to implement the ban effectively.
The ban specifically targets civilians carrying guns or metallic pipes in areas such as Marol Market, NyokAgany, and Leudiet Ports.
Governor Kok warned that anyone found violating the order will be subject to imprisonment or fines as determined by the courts.
“For a first-time offense, the punishment will be imprisonment for a term not exceeding six (6) months or a fine, as determined by a competent court. For a second-time offense, the imprisonment term will not exceed twelve (12) months, or a fine may be imposed,” he stated.
Meanwhile, Bol Deng Bol, Chairperson of the Jonglei Civil Society Network (JSCN), welcomed the state government’s directive and commended the state leadership for stepping up to address public safety.
“These are good resolutions that the government of Jonglei State has considered, and as a civil society, we appreciate that the government is taking action to effectively ban the carrying of guns,” he said.
However, Bol also urged the government to approach the issue with dialogue and inclusivity to understandwhy some youth carry guns.
“As civil society, we propose that the government engage with the youth to understand their perspective. Why are they carrying guns? What are their concerns? What do they want the government to do to stop having guns?” Bol asked.
He emphasized that lasting solutions require collaboration and community engagement.
“The government should not be afraid to sit with the people and find solutions together, rather than making decisions in isolation and implementing them without consultation. In most cases the government has often distanced itself from the people, and that approach hasn’t worked. We believe involving the community is essential for effective and sustainable implementation of these resolutions,” Bol added.
