(WAU, JUR RIVER COUNTY) – The governor of Western Bahr el Ghazal State, Emmanuel Primo Okello, has instructed local authorities and security forces in Jur River County to act swiftly to stop the growing cases of looting along the Wau-Tonj Road.
Speaking on Wednesday during the handover of a multipurpose farmers’ centre built by the UN Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO) in Nyiwara, Governor Okello stressed that the safety of travellers and traders on the route must be protected. Reports last month revealed repeated incidents in which armed bandits attacked trucks transporting goods.
Governor Okello described the situation as a serious security concern that threatens both trade and public safety. “This is a public road, and it is the responsibility of the government. The road was built to serve citizens and allow traders to move goods. However, criminals sometimes ambush trucks and travellers, creating insecurity,” he said.
He assured the residents that his administration, working with local chiefs, community leaders and security organs, would apprehend those behind the attacks. He further appealed to forces of the Sudan People’s Liberation Army-In Opposition (SPLA-IO) in the area to work closely with government security units patrolling the route.
“If there are SPLA-IO members here, I urge them to cooperate with the security forces. We will not allow criminals to disrupt the stability we are trying to maintain. If security is guaranteed, investors will not hesitate to come here and invest. I want an immediate end to the looting of trucks,” Governor Okello declared.
Local civil society leaders also backed the governor’s message. Stephen Robo Musa, chairperson of the civil society network in Western Bahr el Ghazal and state coordinator for the Community Empowerment for Progress Organization (CEPO), said community involvement was crucial in addressing the problem.
“We welcome the governor’s call for collective action against insecurity. The community has an important role in monitoring crime because people know the behaviours of their neighbours and newcomers in their areas,” Musa explained.