By Alan Clement
The Inspector General of Police (IGP) Gen. Abraham Manyuat has endorsed a directive prohibiting parties and social gatherings involving minors in entertainment venues across Juba Town.
This directive follows a formal request from the Managing Director of the Entertainment Authority, Acinbaai Maluk Wut, in response to mounting public and law enforcement concerns over underage gatherings in entertainment venues.
In a letter to the IGP date July 15th, the South Sudan Entertainment Authority, requested the police’s support in ensuring a ban on all parties for peer groups/teenagers at clubs, restaurants and hotels.
“The Office of the Inspector General of Police, after due assessment and consultation, hereby issues this letter of no objection to the Entertainment Authority of South Sudan to take necessary greater measures and prohibit such gatherings involving minors,” the statement read in part.
The IGP’s directive reinforces Order No. 001/2023, issued by the former Mayor of Juba City Council, Emmanuel Khamis Richard, which formally authorizes the Entertainment Authority as the regulatory body for entertainment and recreational centers within the city’s jurisdiction.
The directive aims to protect minors from environments that promote alcohol consumption, drug abuse, and immoral behavior, while also preserving public order and safety in areas frequently associated with criminal activity and social unrest.
Police Spokesperson, Maj. Gen. James Monday Enoka, emphasized that the directive supports broader efforts to safeguard the well-being, values, and discipline of young people. He noted that entertainment venues must now operate in full compliance with national laws, child protection policies, and licensing conditions.
“We’ve seen cases where minors attend parties until morning hours, often in high-risk areas. This is unacceptable,” he said, referencing a recent incident in Hai Thoura where underage partygoers were detained and later released to their parents under a formal undertaking.
The directive also calls for coordinated enforcement involving the South Sudan National Police Service, Juba City Authority, and Juba County Authority. Venue owners who fail to comply may face penalties, including license revocation. “Entertainment centers must operate responsibly. Profit should not come at the expense of children’s safety,” the Monday added.
He urged parents to take an active role in monitoring their children’s movements, especially during late hours. Monday stressed that parental vigilance is key to preventing youth involvement in criminal activity or victimization.
“We must be responsible parents. It is our duty to know where our children are and what they are doing,” he said while also advising the minors to listen to their parents, teachers and what the government is saying in order to become responsible future leaders of the country.
Authorities believe the new measure will reinforce those efforts and contribute to a safer, more disciplined environment for South Sudan’s youth.