SSPDF begins disarmament exercise to clear illegal firearms in Lakes State
August 13, 2020 (Thessherald)–The South Sudan People’s Defense Forces (SSPDF) have begun a disarmament process aimed at collecting illegal firearms from the civilian population in their areas.
“The Governor of Lakes State, Hon. Makur Kulang Liei, has officiated the launching of disarmament process in Lakes State today in Rumbek Town,” said Mayor Muou Adhor, Press Secretary in Lakes State.
“The governor, prior this exercise made several meetings in some parts of Lakes State where he urged the traditional authorities and youth to voluntarily hand over their arms to the government. The launching is a part of president Salva Kiir Mayardit order which called for the total eradication of illegal guns in the hands of notorious youth across the country,” Muou noted in a statement.
Addressing the citizens at Rumbek Freedom Square, Governor Kulang called on the chiefs to continue their well-started efforts to ensure that guns are taken from the civilians by the disarmament authorities.
The governor applauded the chiefs from Rumbek East County for voluntarily collecting 395 different types of riffles within two days. He urged the rest of the chiefs to follow suits in their respective areas.
“The governor appreciated the corporation between the government of Lakes State and disarmament commanders led by Lt.Gen. Rin Tueny Mabor for allowing State leadership to engage the youth for a peaceful disarmament.”
South Sudan’s conflict that began in 2013 has created scope for the illegal proliferation of firearms in the country.