The United Nations Mission in South Sudan (UNMISS) has handed over two police stations to the Western Equatoria State government this week to enhance security in different parts of the state. 

The Sakure Payam of Nzara County and Yambio Payam Police stations were constructed under the Quick Impact Project from the UNMISS and Human Rights Division.

Speaking during the handover of the police station in Sakure on Tuesday, the UN Head of Office in Western Equatoria State Christopher Murenge, said the construction was a response to calls from residents for protection.

“The Human Rights Division and through UNPOL and the Commissioner of Police to us, for construction and we supported it. But as my colleague said, it should be for the use intended, it should be to make sure that the police and communities are working together, it should be used to bring the community closer and to help the community also support the police and themselves," he said.  

Murenge called on citizens to collaborate with the police to combat crimes in the area and urged police officers deployed in the stations to protect the lives and property of residents. 

Maj. Gen. James Mande the State Police Commissioner appreciated the partnership with UNMISS. 

"These people(UNMISS) have been helping the police in very many ways, and what we are celebrating here is one this positive partnership. we appreciate them because when you look back much has been done including capacity building and the next thing is development," Mande said. "The communities have testified that they are happy because they are the recipients to see the service delivered by UNMISS." 

Meanwhile, Mrs. Gloria Joseph, the citizen of the area appreciated the work done by UNMISS saying the residents will benefit from the services especially for cases of violence against women.