EASTERN EQUATORIA – In recent years, parts of Eastern Equatoria have seen disputes over grazing land leading to cattle raids and revenge attacks, causing deaths, destruction and fear.

"We lost our belongings livelihoods when we were displaced. Our children have not had enough to eat, and many girls and boys cannot go to school because it is not safe. As a mother, this is heartbreaking to see,” says Adiye Sunday Ochiti Paul, who is a member of the newly formed Police Community Relations Committee in Magwi.

Police stations being few and far between in the state’s rural areas makes matters worse.

"We try our best to respond to clashes between farmers and cattle herders, but we are often far away from where the violence happens. By the time we arrive, things have sometimes escalated,” explains Sergeant Aol Josephine Santo, adding that this is one of the reasons the community committees and their cooperation with law enforcement agents are important.

Otto Benson, Chairperson of the committee established in Agoro Centre, mentions their ability to spot early warning indicators as the perhaps biggest advantage when it comes to prevent violence and crime.

“Over time, we have become a reliable link between citizens and security forces. With our help, the police can respond quicker to emergencies happening in our communities,” he says.

Supported by the United Nations Mission in South Sudan (UNMISS) and implemented by a local partner, the Community Needs Initiative, the Police Community Relations Committees operate as a protection mechanism managed by residents themselves.

Members of the four committees that have so far been created receive training on how best to serve as the eyes and ears of the South Sudan National Police Service. They have also been given gumboots, flashlights, whistles and other basic equipment to improve their ability to detect, and sometimes respond to, suspicious activities.

“Magwi and other locations with community committees in place are not immune to intercommunal tensions or conflict, but it is the kind of initiative that we are keen to support as part of our mandate to protect civilians,” concluded Guy Griffin, Head of the peacekeeping mission’s field office in Torit.