The Upper Nile State information minister has confirmed that the United Nations Mission in South Sudan (UNMISS) has officially handed over two Protection of Civilians sites to the state government.
Peter Ngwojo said the handover took place on 13 February, marking a significant step in the transition of responsibilities from UN peacekeepers to local authorities.
“UNMISS has formally transferred the two protection sites to the state government as of the 13th February, and we have taken full responsibility for their management,” he stated.
The minister explained that the two sites include the former Rwandan police base and the Indian battalion site of UNMISS.
“The Rwandan police compound is now under the control of our local police services, while the Indian battalion site has been given to the community members who were living in the POC,” he said.
Ngwojo added that the state government acted immediately after the handover by deploying police officers to secure the areas and maintain law and order.
“Following the transfer, we promptly deployed police forces to ensure the safety and protection of the sites and the surrounding communities,” he said.
State authorities say the move reflects growing confidence in local institutions to manage security and community affairs independently.