By Louis Loku
The Ministry of Interior has directed all police personnel and other organised forces to immediately stop the illegal collection of money from citizens of East African Community (EAC) member states arriving in South Sudan through Juba International Airport and other points of entry.
In a notice issued under the leadership of Interior Minister Gen. Aleu Ayieny Aleu, the ministry said it had received reports of some police personnel demanding money from EAC citizens under the pretext of alien registration.
The ministry described the practice as unlawful and warned all officers involved, either directly or indirectly, to stop the practice with immediate effect.
According to the ministry, South Sudan’s membership in the EAC grants citizens of partner states specific rights relating to movement within the region.
The ministry cited Article 104 of Chapter Seven of the EAC Treaty, which provides for the free movement of persons, labour and services, as well as the right of establishment and residence for citizens of partner states within the Community.
“Such unlawful activity must stop with immediate effect,” the ministry warned, directing police personnel and other organised forces to refrain from demanding unauthorised payments from EAC citizens.
The ministry further warned that officers who continue to engage in the practice will face serious disciplinary action in accordance with the law and applicable regulations.
The directive comes as South Sudan continues efforts to strengthen its integration into the EAC and facilitate the movement of people across member states.
The ministry urged security personnel stationed at airports, border crossings, and other points of entry to respect the rights of EAC citizens and perform their duties in accordance with the law.
It also cautioned security personnel against actions that could undermine South Sudan’s commitments as an EAC member state or damage the country’s image among citizens of neighbouring countries.
The ministry has placed responsibility on police commanders and other security authorities to ensure the directive is fully implemented at all entry points across the country.