Authorities in Torit Municipal Council, Eastern Equatoria State, have imposed a night curfew following an attack on the police headquarters on Tuesday.
The curfew restricts public movement from 6:00 PM to 6:00 AM and will remain in effect until security conditions improve.
Torit Mayor Oyet Baptist said the measure is intended to
ensure public safety as security forces work to restore normalcy.
He urged residents, especially those who work late, to
remain at their workplaces overnight if necessary to avoid confrontations with
security personnel.
“The government says by six in the evening there should be
no movement. Everyone should stay where they are working and remain indoors
until we announce that the situation is secure. If someone moves at the wrong
time, they will be questioned. This is temporary until we can resume normal
activities,” Mayor Baptist explained.
However, some workers say the curfew will significantly
affect their operations. David Ochan, a journalist with Radio Emmanuel in
Torit, said the restrictions pose challenges for media workers who often work
beyond 9:00 PM.
He appealed to authorities to ensure that patrol teams are
able to assess and understand the circumstances of people who may need to move
at night due to work.
“It is really affecting our work because we cannot sleep at
the office, it's only meant for duties, not accommodation. We want peace and
security, but the government should deploy forces who understand people’s
situations. Sometimes I work from 7 to 9 PM, or even later after my programs,”
Ochan noted.
Authorities have not yet announced when the curfew will be
lifted.