By Lodu William Odiya
Jonglei State Governor Dr Riek Gai Kok has yesterday strengthened the state’s internal security operations through deployment of National Security service.
According to a statement issued by the state press unit, a high-level delegation headed by Major General Deng Akeen Chief of Operation in National Security Services visited Jonglei head quarters on Thursday.
The team visited followed the deployment of national security forces and newly acquired advanced surveillance vehicles to tackle insecurity in the state.
According to the governor’s office the delegation collaborated with the state government in investigating cases of insecurity in the area.
“During a courtesy visit made by Major General Deng Akeen to engage with the state government to reinforce security cooperation and deepen strategic ties.”
In the statement, Governor Gai expressed gratitude to President Salva Kiir Mayardit and the National Security Services for their dedication to ensuring the safety of lives and property in Jonglei State.
The statement underscored he also commended the heads of security agencies operating within the state for their professionalism and commitment, which have contributed to the restoration of peace.
“Today, Jonglei State is being celebrated for the return of peace, and that would not have been possible without your tireless efforts and collaboration. Your patriotism and passion for your duty have made this achievement a reality,” the Governor said.
The statement further stated Gai described the relationship between the Jonglei State Government and national security service as a family-oriented partnership, reiterating his administration’s continued commitment to supporting security operations for the sustenance of peace.
According the statement, Major General Deng Akeen had also expressed profound appreciation to Governor Riek for his firm commitment to strengthening security and fostering peace in the state.
It also underlined that Deng acknowledged that the Governor’s consistent support, resolute leadership, and dedication to a united and peaceful Jonglei have significantly motivated them to deploy their expertise towards sustaining the prevailing peace.
On June 21, armed individuals wearing uniforms and bearing Red Belt emblems disrupted the inauguration of a health center in Kolmarek by opening fire randomly during the event.
The ceremony was attended by Governor Kok and senior presidential advisor Kuol Manyang. Later that month, another community gathering in Yomchir Boma, organized by diaspora returnees, was attacked in similar fashion, forcing attendees to flee under gunfire.
Recently, officials in Jonglei state had accused a group calling itself the Red Belt of carrying out a months-long campaign of violence, culminating in an ambush over the weekend that killed a young girl and wounded two others.
The high-level visit would strengthen security operations and guarantee the safety of citizens and residents across Jonglei State.