Security forces deployed to Tonj town to support peace efforts
National security forces deployed from Juba have arrived in Tonj South County, Warrap state as part of ongoing government efforts to promote peace, strengthen security and support preparations for a planned disarmament exercise.
According to a statement issued by the Office of the Caretaker Commissioner of Tonj South County on Friday, 9 October 2026, the forces were received by Caretaker Commissioner Gordon Makuer Tiau, alongside traditional leaders and members of the local community, before being escorted to their temporary base in Kur-lueth, Thiet Payam, Apuk-Juwiir.
The deployment forms part of wider efforts to consolidate peace in Tonj and other parts of Warrap State through cooperation between security authorities, local leaders and communities.
Commissioner Makuer Tiau welcomed the forces and commended the national government under President Salva Kiir Mayardit and the Warrap State leadership for their continued efforts to promote stability in the area.
He said the deployment was intended to support community-led peace initiatives, protect civilians and help create a conducive environment for the planned disarmament exercise.
The commissioner also assured the deployed personnel of the cooperation of the county administration, payam authorities and traditional leaders.
Community leaders in Apuk-Juwiir welcomed the arrival of the forces and expressed their readiness to work with local authorities to encourage young people to embrace peaceful coexistence and voluntarily surrender illegal firearms.
The security leadership, in turn, assured the commissioner and community members of their commitment to professionalism, discipline and cooperation with civil authorities.
National police personnel have also been deployed to the area, while additional security forces are expected to arrive from Juba as preparations continue.
The disarmament exercise has not yet begun, according to the commissioner’s press unit. Authorities have not announced a specific date for its commencement.
The planned exercise is part of broader efforts to address the circulation of illegal firearms and reduce intercommunal violence across Greater Tonj and other parts of Warrap State.
The county administration is expected to continue working with community leaders and residents to promote voluntary cooperation, strengthen trust and support lasting peace
