Nimule Burns Confiscated Tramadol Consignment

(NIMULE) – Authorities in Nimule have destroyed a large consignment of confiscated Tramadol tablets as concerns grow over rising drug abuse among youth and gangs in the border town.

The destruction was carried out on Tuesday by the Health Department of Nimule Municipal Council working together with security organs.

Mayor Caesar Longa Fuli, the Chief Executive Officer, the Police Inspector and representatives of other security organs witnessed the exercise.

The drugs were seized during recent operations targeting illegal drug peddling in Nimule.

Mayor Longa Fuli said the abuse of Tramadol and other narcotics has been linked to rising cases of gang activity, theft and insecurity in the town.

He said the drugs are harmful to the youth and to the security of Nimule.

The Mayor said the town cannot become a market for illicit drugs and the destruction sends a clear message that the Municipal Council and security organs will not tolerate drug trafficking and abuse.

He urged parents, community leaders and youth to join hands in the fight against drug abuse.

The Mayor also called on traders to stop importing and selling banned substances.

Emmanuel Gama, a representative of the Health Department, said Tramadol is a controlled substance that should only be given out under medical prescription.

He warned that its misuse poses serious health risks, including addiction and mental health complications.

Security officials at the event said they remain committed to continuing crackdowns on illegal drugs.

They called on the public to report suspected dealers to law enforcement agencies.

The Municipal Council said similar operations will continue to safeguard public health and improve security in Nimule.

The border town has become a key transit point for smuggled pharmaceuticals entering South Sudan from neighbouring Uganda.

Health workers in Eastern Equatoria State have reported an increase in young people seeking treatment for drug related problems.

Local residents have welcomed the destruction, saying drug abuse has driven a rise in night time robberies and violent fights.

Community leaders have called for more public awareness campaigns in schools and markets about the dangers of Tramadol.

Police in Nimule said they have increased patrols and inspections of vehicles crossing the border in recent weeks.

The destruction of the drugs was carried out in public to show transparency and to deter others from engaging in the trade.

Authorities have not disclosed the street value of the destroyed consignment, but Tramadol sells illegally for between 500 and 1,000 South Sudanese Pounds per tablet, which is about 8 to 15 US cents at current market rates.

The Mayor’s office said further seizures are expected as operations continue across the municipality.