A run-down police post in the troubled region of Boma is to be renovated by the United Nations Mission in South Sudan to help strengthen law and order and provide a secure environment for the local community.

Boma is one of the most volatile regions in the country, which has been suffering ongoing violence since civil war broke out in 2013.

The local acting Police Commissioner said it was vital to strengthen the rule of law in Boma to deter violence and build peace. Lieutenant Colonel Henry Nyikwan said strengthening security institutions helped to build trust and confidence between communities and enabled the police to better protect civilians.

The acting Commissioner’s comments followed news that UNMISS is set to launch a Quick Impact Project to rehabilitate the Pibor police post in Boma. The only police station in the area is a dilapidated building constructed during British Colonial rule.

Promoting security and peace is a key priority for UNMISS so that people who have fled the violence and sought sanctuary at Protection of Civilian sites and other camps for internally displaced people have a safe environment to return home to. In turn, this creates an environment conducive to development and progress for the conflict-ridden nation.

“We are happy with UNMISS for strengthening the rule of law, said Lt. Col. Nyikwan. “Now our police station will be back in shape like it was in 1960s.”

“This is the only police post in the state. It is dilapidated. The roofs have rust and we fix the broken windows with nails,” he said. “The rehabilitation of the Pibor police post will allow justice to prevail and create a peaceful atmosphere in town and between our neighbours and us.”

The UNMISS Head of Field Office, Deborah Schein, said that the rehabilitation of the police post had been requested in line with the community’s priority to promote the rule of law and professionalization of police officers. The rule of law is vital to achieving peace and stability and therefore development, she said.