9 October 2014 - To boost security for internally displaced persons (IDPs) living in protection sites at UNMISS Bentiu, Unity State, UN Police have given community watch groups vital equipment to carry out their duties.

Speaking during the handover, UNMISS Unity State Police Adviser Francis Yiribaare said the equipment, which included rain gear, torches and solar panels, was donated following an appeal by community members.

“(The equipment) includes 90 raincoats, 25 gumboots, 35 torch lights … and 25 solar (panels),” Mr. Yiribaare said. “We believe this is going to enhance your activities and also help improve safety and security in the POC (Protection of Civilians site).”

Community representative James Madut said the watch group had been awaiting such items for some time. ‘These items will help the community watch groups improve the situation in the IDP (camps).”

Peter Gatjuat Kuol, a watch group member, noted that the equipment would help reduce crime, as he and his associates would be able to move around more easily in the PoC site.

Currently, UNNMISS Bentiu is hosting more than 40,000 people displaced by ongoing conflict in South Sudan.