23/11/2025
# # # Governor Lobong Calls for Calm and Cooperation After Deadly Torit Raids
**Torit, Eastern Equatoria State – 23 November 2025**
Governor Louis Lobong Lojore has appealed to residents of Eastern Equatoria State to remain calm and fully cooperate with security forces as the government intensifies efforts to restore stability following the November 18 raids in Torit that claimed several innocent lives.
Speaking Sunday morning at St. Peter and Paul Catholic Parish in Torit, Governor Lobong blamed the attacks on a growing culture of silence and protection of criminals by some community members.
“Some people are hiding criminals in their homes and failing to report suspicious movements. This must stop. Security is a shared responsibility,” he told hundreds of worshippers.
The governor expressed deep frustration with elements within the SPLM-IO, saying he has repeatedly urged their leadership not to transfer conflicts from other states into Eastern Equatoria.
“I have spoken to them many times, but my appeals have not been respected. We will not allow anyone to spoil the peace of this state,” he said.
He assured the public that government forces are actively pursuing the attackers and will not rest until peace spoilers are neutralized.
# # # # Hai-Mairo Security Concerns
Governor Lobong also addressed ongoing insecurity in Torit’s Hai-Mairo neighbourhood, revealing that the area is built on land belonging to the Catholic Church.
He called on church authorities to collaborate with Torit Municipal Council to immediately open blocked access roads, saying the measure would improve drainage, ease movement, strengthen security patrols, and allow faster emergency response.
“Some families are still harbouring criminalsis is why insecurity keeps returning to Torit,” he warned.
# # # # Message of Unity and Responsibility
The governor emphasized the need for unity and constructive engagement, urging citizens to avoid divisive talk and misinformation.