A night-time curfew has been imposed in the town of Torit, Eastern Equatoria State, after a deadly attack that the government blames on opposition forces.
Louis Lobong Lojore, the governor of Eastern Equatoria State, announced the measure, which begins at 6 PM each day, following a surge in security concerns.
The attack occurred on Tuesday morning, with state authorities reporting that Captain John Kamilo, the deputy police inspector for Torit County, was killed.
However, the opposition group, the Sudan People’s Liberation Army in Opposition (SPLA-IO), has contested the government’s version of events. SPLA-IO spokesperson Col. Lam Paul Gabriel claimed that 10 government security force members died in the clash in Torit. Radio Tamazuj has not been able to independently verify either account.
The incident took place a day after Governor Lobong issued a warning to SPLA-IO forces stationed at a cantonment site in Irube, urging them not to intimidate or harm civilians.
Curfew Details
In a public address broadcast on state radio on Wednesday, Governor Lobong declared the curfew would be effective from 6 PM daily until the security situation improves.
“From this day forward, starting at 6 PM, we do not want anyone moving about unnecessarily because there may be criminals hidden among us,” Governor Lobong stated.
He explained that security forces would be patrolling and could misinterpret anyone’s presence as suspicious. While movement is broadly restricted, the governor outlined an exception for “those who have a genuine emergency, such as a person in dire need of medical attention.”
In such cases, individuals are advised to clearly communicate their purpose to law enforcement. The governor also instructed travellers arriving from other areas to remain at the bus park overnight and not venture into the town.
Civil Society Reaction
The imposition of the curfew has been welcomed by some local civil society representatives.
Ukullu Charles, the Executive Director of the Peace Link Foundation Organisation, described the measure as “prudent and necessary.”
“In critical times like these, there are essential protocols that the authorities must enforce for the greater good of public safety,” Charles told Radio Tamazuj.
He added that it is the government’s responsibility to protect citizens and their property during periods of instability, and he commended the governor for taking a “courageous step.”
No end date has been set for the curfew, with officials stating it will remain in force until security is fully restored.