BOR – The armed Red Belt group has denied accusations that it is a rebel movement, but describes itself as a community defense force formed to protect civilians in Jonglei State from criminal child traffickers and other armed groups.
In a press statement on behalf of Red Belt, Leek Mamer Leek said the group remains loyal to the nation and accused political leaders from Murle and Nuer ethnic groups of spreading propaganda to discredit it.
Red Belt urged the national government to investigate what it called a political plot against the group, while reaffirming its mission to restore peace and security in the community.
Red Belt has been accused robbing people carrying cash and target traders traders from the Bahr el Ghazal region.
They have allegedly targeted a convoy of the Presidential Advisor Kuol Manyang, attacked and looted vulnerable women selling fish, ambushed a National Security Service convoy, and most recently attacked a wrestling match between Bor and Yirol East.
Security beef up
Jonglei State Governor Dr. Riek Gai Kok has strengthened the state’s internal security operations with the deployment of national security forces and newly acquired advanced surveillance vehicles to tackle insecurity.
The Chief of Operations in the National Security Service (NSS), Major General Deng Akeen Deng visited Bor on Thursday to ascertain the situation following the rise in activities of the armed youth group, accused of robberies and ambushes.
Governor Riek Gai Kok commended President Kiir and the National Security Services for their dedication to ensuring the safety of lives and property in Jonglei State, a statement from the governor’s office said.
Riek also commended the heads of security agencies operating within the state for their professionalism and commitment, which have contributed to the restoration of peace.
He reiterated his administration’s continued commitment to supporting security operations for the sustenance of peace.