IGP Byakagaba and South Sudan Police Chief Meet in Kampala to Strengthen Cross Border Security

Inspector General of Police Abas Byakagaba met with South Sudan’s Inspector General of National Police Service, General Abraham Manyaut Peter, on Tuesday at the Police Headquarters in Naguru, Kampala.

The purpose of the meeting was to strengthen bilateral cooperation in addressing transnational and cross-border crimes affecting both Uganda and South Sudan, with a focus on organised networks, smuggling, and human trafficking.

The meeting, attended by senior officers from both forces, reviewed current security challenges along their shared border, including the rise in smuggling and illicit arms transfers.

The leaders reaffirmed their commitment to enhancing intelligence sharing, conducting joint patrols, and strengthening law enforcement coordination. This engagement builds on existing frameworks aimed at promoting regional security and stability.

IGP Byakagaba underscored Uganda’s readiness to intensify collaborative efforts, highlighting the need for real-time communication channels and integrated operations targeting criminal syndicates that operate across porous borders.

He emphasised that cohesive action is vital to protecting communities on both sides of the border. General Manyaut echoed these sentiments, noting that coordination is essential in combating organised crime and ensuring peace in the border regions.

He praised Uganda’s proactive approach and pledged to reciprocate with increased engagement from South Sudanese law enforcement, including joint training exercises and operational planning.

The two chiefs directed their teams to formalise a joint action plan outlining strategic patrol zones, intelligence-sharing protocols, and timelines for implementation. There was also mutual agreement to hold quarterly review meetings to assess progress and adapt measures as needed.

Observers say the meeting signals a deepening of security collaboration between Uganda and South Sudan, a critical development given escalating threats in border communities.

With both nations facing shared challenges, this partnership is expected to enhance regional crime prevention, safeguard citizens, and promote lasting stability.

As both countries prepare to implement the agreed plan, attention will turn to its impact on reducing illicit activities and strengthening law enforcement presence along the border