Authorities in Jonglei State have launched a crackdown on the armed group known as the Red Belt, accusing its members of terrorism, cattle raiding, and disturbing public order.
The group, largely made up of local youths who initially
organized as village security teams, has come under fire for alleged violent
activities.
Officials say members have repeatedly fired shots in the air
and carried out raids, disrupting peace in the state.
Jonglei Minister of Information, Nyamar Lony, said security
organs have been directed to enforce resolutions of the State Security
Committee, chaired by Governor Dr. Rick Gai Kok, to dismantle the group and
arrest its members.
“All security organs are directed to enforce security
resolutions issued by state security committee led by H.E Dr. Riek Gai Kok,
Governor of Jonglei State to cooperate in cracking down and apprehending Red
Belt criminals in Bor,” said Lony.
The order follows a deadly clash on Saturday in Bor between
suspected Red Belt members and National Security forces after a wrestling match
between Bor and Yirol East. The incident left a young girl dead and two others
wounded by gunfire.