By Yiep Joseph
South Sudan People’s Defense Forces (SSPDF) has issued a directive banning all soldiers off duty from carrying weapons across the country.
Maj. Gen. Lul Ruai Koang, SSPDF Spokesperson, announced the orders from the Chief of Defense Forces (CDF), stating that this move is meant to enforce arms control.
“On movement, SSPDF Chief of Defense Forces hereby bans unauthorized movement of security personnel with individual/unit firearms. However, individuals/units on official mission/ duty are exempted on presentation of authenticated Departure order,” the statement partly read.
The statement further outlines that all movements involving firearms by individuals or units are prohibited unless those involved present authenticated Departure Orders.
“Any individuals or groups found moving with weapons without proper authorization will have their arms confiscated and face administrative or punitive measures” Lul said.
In the Order, the SSPDF has also mandated a comprehensive firearms registration program.
“On registration of firearms, all armed civilians especially those in areas under the control of the government/SSPDF are hereby directed to immediately commence registration of individual guns/clean owned weapons,” it added.
The directive explicitly warns that individuals found carrying firearms without proper authorization will face confiscation of their weapons and potential administrative or punitive action.
To facilitate the registration process, traditional leaders, local government authorities, and community chiefs have been tasked with overseeing the exercise within their respective jurisdictions.
A one-month deadline has been set for civilians to register their weapons.
Lul expressed in a statement that once disarmament is fully carried out, it will provide maximum security and protection to the civilian population.
The statement further renews calls for SPLA-IO soldiers who have gone into hiding or are scattered to report back to the nearest government or SSPDF outposts to resume their duties.
“SPLA-IO forces around Juba are specifically instructed to report to Digali Training Center” the statement read.
In a gesture aimed at fostering peace and cooperation, SSPDF forces are also ordered to cease all hostilities against SPLA-IO members in cantonment sites or those engaging in peaceful civilian life.
These directives follow a recent incident in Juba’s Gaida residential area, where an SSPDF soldier was killed by a colleague after a minor altercation,