The approval followed a meeting held this week in Juba between the Governor of Western Equatoria State, Badagbu Daniel Rimbasa, and the IGP, during which the state leadership raised concerns over severe shortages of police personnel affecting public safety across the state.
According to a statement issued by the Office of the Governor, the discussions focused on “the security challenges facing the state and the need to strengthen police presence in the counties.”
“The Inspector General of Police (IGP) has approved the recruitment of 1,200 new police officers across all counties of Western Equatoria State following concerns over severe shortages of personnel affecting policing and public safety in the region,” the statement said.
Authorities in Western Equatoria described the approval as a critical intervention aimed at reinforcing security institutions and improving law enforcement operations in counties that have experienced persistent insecurity and rising demand for policing services.
The state government said the deployment is expected to improve community safety, strengthen law and order, and enhance police response to criminal activities and security incidents.
“According to state authorities, the recruitment exercise aims to improve law enforcement, enhance community security, and address the growing demand for police services across Western Equatoria State,” the statement added.
Officials noted that the newly recruited officers would be stationed in various counties to support ongoing security operations and increase police visibility in local communities.
“The newly recruited officers are expected to be deployed in different counties to support security operations, maintain law and order, and improve the safety of residents,” the statement said.
Western Equatoria has in recent years faced a range of security challenges, including armed criminal activities, communal violence, and cross-border threats due to its proximity to the Democratic Republic of the Congo and the Central African Republic. Local leaders have frequently cited inadequate police numbers and limited logistical support as key obstacles to effective policing.
Security observers say the deployment of additional officers could help stabilize affected areas, improve public confidence in security institutions, and strengthen community policing efforts, especially in remote counties where law enforcement presence has remained limited.
The move also reflects broader national efforts to reinforce policing structures and improve internal security as authorities seek to respond to increasing security concerns in different parts of South Sudan.
“Officials say the move is part of broader efforts by the state government to strengthen security institutions and promote peace and stability across the state,” the statement concluded.
