Akobo commissioner orders civilians to stop carrying firearms

JUBA – The Commissioner of Akobo County, James Kueth Makuach, has issued a new executive directive ordering civilians in and around Akobo town to stop carrying firearms and to help restore normalcy in the area following recent tensions.

In a statement released on Wednesday, commissioner instructed all individuals who still possess guns within the town to keep their weapons at home and move freely in a peaceful and civil manner.

He warned that anyone who continues to carry firearms in public in defiance of the order will be held individually accountable.

“This statement serves as a directive to inform all gun owners loitering around the town to keep their weapons at home and move freely in a civil manner as guaranteed,” Commissioner Makuach said.

“In regard to this order, anyone who incessantly defies it will be individually accountable as we embark extensively on normalizing the situation,” he added.

The directive comes as local authorities attempt to stabilize the security situation and encourage the return of civilians who fled the area amid recent military developments.

Commissioner Makuach also appealed to the entire population of Akobo County to return to their homes, assuring them that their safety is a priority. His appeal targeted community leaders, including chiefs, sub-chiefs, local government officials, women, children, teachers, traders, and religious groups.

“The initial plan on my table is to speed up the process of humanitarian intervention as it is the paramount method to rescue all our families in dire need of humanitarian assistance,” he said.

He further called on humanitarian workers, hospital staff, United Nations agencies, intellectuals, tea sellers, and other members of the community to resume normal activities in the town.

The commissioner specifically invited internally displaced persons from neighbouring counties, including Nyirol County and Uror County, to voluntarily return to Akobo, saying authorities are prioritising their safety and well-being.

According to Makuach, the county administration is working to accelerate humanitarian interventions aimed at assisting families affected by the recent crisis. He said the swift delivery of humanitarian aid is a key step toward helping residents recover and rebuild their lives.

Akobo has recently witnessed heightened tensions and displacement as government and opposition forces manoeuvred around the strategic town, raising fears of possible clashes and humanitarian consequences.

Local authorities say the new directive is part of broader efforts to restore order, facilitate humanitarian assistance, and encourage displaced residents to return home.

The directive comes shortly after government forces announced the recapture of Akobo town following clashes with opposition fighters.

The South Sudan People’s Defence Forces said its troops entered the strategic border town on 10 March after fighting with the Sudan People’s Liberation Army in Opposition, which had controlled the area for years.