By Louis Loku
Juba County Commissioner Kalisto Ladu Faustino has criticised security personnel assigned to private companies for allegedly blocking government officials from inspecting business premises, warning them against putting company interests above the interests of South Sudan.
His remarks follow the arrest of eight people suspected of repackaging expired maize flour for resale and the closure of H Brothers General Trading and Investment Co. Ltd. in Gumbo.
The suspects were arrested on Saturday after security personnel reportedly caught them transferring expired maize flour into new sacks at the company’s grinding mill.
Commissioner Kalisto said security officers, including police and National Security personnel, should help the government identify illegal activities instead of obstructing officials carrying out their lawful duties.
He questioned why some security personnel deny government officials access to company premises simply because company directors have instructed them to do so.
The commissioner urged security officers to report wrongdoing and cooperate with relevant authorities rather than protect businesses suspected of violating the law.
He also called on local, regional and international companies operating in South Sudan to allow the National Bureau of Standards and other relevant authorities to inspect their goods in accordance with the law.
Kalisto further warned security personnel against sacrificing the interests of the public for the small incentives they receive from private companies.
“You have to serve the national interest and put South Sudan in your heart. You forgot about the small incentives given to you, and then you sell out the interests of the people of South Sudan,” Kalisto said.
He stressed that security personnel should prioritise their national responsibilities and support government efforts to ensure that companies comply with the law.