By HAN News Desk
JUBA – The Commander-in-Chief of the South Sudan People’s Defence Forces (SSPDF), General Paul Nang, has issued a stern directive ordering the arrest of all individuals affiliated with a group known as the “Red Belt,” describing it as an armed organization that threatens the nation’s security.
Speaking during a military address broadcast on Nile Watch Magazine, General Nang warned that the Red Belt is not a legitimate civil organization but a coordinated group with a military structure, complete with emblems, ranks, and weaponry. He accused the group of acquiring arms illegally and operating outside the authority of the national security apparatus.
“What threatens our security in South Sudan today is the Red Belt,” General Nang said. “They have an emblem, they have ranks, and they buy weapons. This means they are a well-organized group. From today onwards, treat the Red Belt as criminals.”
The army chief instructed all security and defense units across the country to treat any identified members of the group as hostile elements, equating them to insurgent forces.
“There is no citizen force with an emblem,” he added. “I have given this directive to our operational commanders: treat the Red Belt exactly like those who are fighting us.”
The order marks a significant escalation in the government’s campaign against non-state armed groups operating within South Sudan, many of which have been accused of fueling insecurity, banditry, and local conflicts.
The SSPDF leadership said the directive aims to restore public safety and prevent the emergence of parallel armed entities that undermine the authority of the state. Military sources have confirmed that security operations are already underway in several regions suspected of harboring Red Belt members.
Analysts say the move reflects growing concerns within South Sudan’s military establishment over the proliferation of armed groups since the country’s civil conflict began in 2013. Despite a fragile peace deal, sporadic clashes and the presence of militia groups continue to challenge national stability.
The government has not yet disclosed how many individuals are believed to be part of the Red Belt group, but authorities have pledged to arrest and prosecute those found to be organizing or financing its activities.
General Nang concluded his remarks by reaffirming the SSPDF’s commitment to protecting national unity, enforcing the rule of law, and maintaining peace across South Sudan.
