Two people, including a deputy commander of a local defence group and a National Security Service (NSS) officer, were killed during a security operation in Bor, the capital of Jonglei State. The incident occurred on Sunday afternoon at a downtown hotel, sparking hours of unrest and gunfire that panicked residents.

Bor County Commissioner, Ateny Pech, told Local Press that security forces were attempting to apprehend leaders of the Red Belt group, recently designated by the government as a rebel organization. He said the group’s leader, Leek Mamer, had issued a “48-hour ultimatum to attack Bor,” prompting close monitoring.

“On Sunday afternoon, Leek and six associates were spotted in a hotel near the main park,” Commissioner Ateny explained. “When security forces approached, Leek fled, leading to an exchange of fire.”

During the confrontation, the Red Belt’s deputy leader, Thon Kuany Agut-Machar, was shot dead. An NSS officer also died, and two other officers were injured. Seven additional people, including the hotel owner and a local wrestler, sustained injuries and were evacuated to Juba for treatment. Authorities said the injured would later be investigated for possible links to the group.

Who Are the Red Belt?

The Red Belt is a community-based defence group from the Dinka Bor community. It gained prominence earlier this year after being accused by authorities of orchestrating attacks, including one targeting government troops in September. The national army subsequently labelled it a rebel group.

Leek Mamer, the group’s leader, has rejected the rebel label, describing the Red Belt as a vigilante force formed to protect local communities and livelihoods amid frustration over insecurity and insufficient state protection.

Calls for Dialogue

Civil society figures have expressed concern over the violence. Activist Ter Manyang Gatwech condemned the killings and urged dialogue to address the root causes behind the group’s formation.

“There is no justification for citizens to die,” Ter told Local Press. “The Red Belt Movement emerged out of frustration with the government. I fear this type of violent extremism could spread beyond Bor, especially given current economic hardships. Dialogue is the only solution.”