By Jacob Onuha Nelson
Central Equatoria State security committee, on Tuesday, April 22nd, burnt harmful alcoholic spirits following a gubernatorial order issued last year.
The incineration followed a meeting of the Security Committee, chaired by Gen. Augustino Jadalla Kamilo Wani, Governor of Central Equatoria State, at Rajaf Payam headquarters in Juba County.
Addressing the press after the meeting, Leon Abe Brown, the State Minister of Local Government and Law Enforcement Agency, said that the committee also addressed growing concerns over unauthorized land distribution occurring on the outskirts of Juba.
He warned that individuals involved in such illegal practices would face consequences and urged the public to follow proper legal channels through the State Ministry of Housing, Land and Public Utilities or the Office of the Commissioner of Juba County when acquiring land.
“We also caution those involved in unauthorized land dealings to cease immediately,” said Abe, adding that he also briefed the Security Committee on the security situation across the counties in the State.
As part of the broader effort to uphold public order and health, the Security Committee oversaw the burning of several boxes of banned alcoholic spirits confiscated from different parts of Juba City and Juba County.
“We cannot allow these substances to destroy the future of our children. If anyone encounters individuals producing and selling these banned products, they should report them to their local council or relevant State authorities,” he added.
For his part, Emmanuel Tete Ezbon, Commissioner of Juba County, emphasized the health risks associated with consuming these illicit spirits.
He urged other county commissioners in Central Equatoria State to implement the Gubernatorial Order as well.
He also directed all shops and bars to comply with the directive and called on authorities to remain vigilant in enforcing the ban and destroying confiscated alcohol.
“These spirits are contributing to the destruction of our youth and causing serious health problems. That is why the Governor ordered their ban. After confiscating them, we kept them secure and today we are destroying them,” said Hon. Tete.
Thiik Thiik Mayardit, Deputy Mayor for Finance and Administration of Juba City Council, reaffirmed the City’s commitment to enforcing the order.
“We want to make it clear that these alcoholic spirits will not be sold within our territory. They are harmful to the health of our citizens,” he stated.
The Security Committee also conducted a field tour of slaughterhouses in Shirikat to assess their compliance with health standards.
The committee reiterated the local order issued by the State Minister of Animal Resources, Fisheries and Tourism, which suspended the operations of two slaughterhouses in the area until they meet the required health standards.
This measure aims to ensure the safety of meat and dairy products for public consumption.