The Efficacy of Police Interventions towards Resolution of Conflicts within the Illemi Triangle

Abstract

Intervention of security agencies is considered key to lasting peace. This is especially crucial to attaining peace in communities where socio-cultural beliefs advocate for revege. The study sought to examine the efficacy of police interventions towards resolution of conflicts within the Illemi Triangle. The study adopted neo-realism and conflict theories, while employing exploratory research design. The target population included all the households in Kibish sub-county (Kenyan), Narus and Mogos in South Sudan. A stratified random sample of 432 household heads and 30 key informants was selected from the three administrative units. Data collection tools used included household survey interviews, Focus Group Discussions (FGDs) and in depth interviews. The collected data was analyzed qualitatively and quantitatively. The study established that the communities within the Illemi Triangle rarely sought police interventions during their conflicts. They instead armed themselves with varied weapons to fight each other. The study concludes that failure to entrust security agencies with ensuring peace within the Illemi Triangle has played a great part to exacerbate the current conflicts in the Triangle. The findings of this study are of great significance to the governments of the two states in addressing the complexities occasioned by the disputed territorial boundaries affecting conflict management among the communities along the borders of the two states. (211 Words)

Key words: Illemi Triangle, cross border conflict, police interventions, lasting peace.