Lakes State caretaker governor has condemned the ruthless manner in which SPLA officers involved in disarmament campaigns have carried out their activities saying they do not have the right to harass civilians.
Telar Ring Deng told Good News Radio that the use of force by SPLA personnel can only be justified in the context of self-defence, namely, if the soldiers are fired at by civilians who resist disarmament.Mr. Ring condemned caning and beatings of civilians by army personnel.
The Lakes caretaker governor condemned the confiscation of civilian vehicles by army officers during their disarmament operations.
Mr. Ring explained that any use of private vehicles can only be done in agreement with the owner of the vehicle in terms of hiring and payment.
He explained that the disarmament operations in Lakes states do not have the necessary logistics including food for the forces.
Mr. Ring asked commissioner to feed the troops while rations arrive from Juba.
The Lakes State top official confirmed allegations that there is an infiltration of arms into Southern Sudan.
He added that he will investigate the sources of weapons and their routs while the disarmament operation goes on.
Mr. Ring added that there is no timeframe for the disarmament operation, explaining that it is an on-going process that will last until all firearms have all been collected from the civil population.