Seized Drugs Shown to State Security Committee in Juba

(JUBA) – The Central Equatoria State Security Committee has reviewed a new display of seized illicit drugs in Juba as part of an intensified campaign to address rising substance abuse and related security concerns. The exhibition, presented by the Directorate of Drugs Control, featured narcotics recently confiscated by security agencies and highlighted the scale of the growing crisis in the state.

The session, chaired by H.E. Lt. Gen. Rabi Mujung Emmanuel, Governor of Central Equatoria State, brought together key officials to assess the ongoing anti-drug operations and discuss ways to strengthen enforcement. The display included samples of cannabis, prescription drugs, and other substances that have increasingly been linked to youth gang violence and mental health problems.

Hon. Leon Abe Brown, Minister of Local Government and Law Enforcement Agencies, said the display served as a clear warning of the damage drugs are causing to young people and communities. He explained that the committee was deeply concerned about the social and security impact of drug abuse, which continues to drive crime and instability, particularly in Juba.

Hon. Brown also pointed out that law enforcement officers often face interference when handling suspects, which hampers justice. He urged all stakeholders to support the special court responsible for prosecuting drug-related cases and ensure it operates without obstruction.

According to the state press unit CESGPU, The meeting reaffirmed the state government’s commitment to restoring safety and maintaining a drug free environment.

Governor Mujung praised the anti-drug task force for its dedication and encouraged tighter coordination between security agencies, local authorities, and communities.

The committee’s review of drug exhibits follows earlier warnings from the state government in September, when officials reported a sudden increase in suicide cases in Juba linked to substance abuse. During that period, the Ministry of Local Government confirmed that eleven suicides had been recorded in one week, most of them among young people affected by drug use.

Authorities say the rise in drug abuse, unemployment, and economic pressure is taking a heavy toll on families and communities. The Security Committee has been exploring preventive approaches, including public awareness campaigns and mental health support for at-risk youth.

The September meeting also discussed widespread land disputes and cases of illegal land occupation in Juba. Hon. Brown urged residents to obtain land ownership documents only through official government channels, including the Ministry of Housing, Lands and Public Utilities or Juba County authorities.

Officials suspended ongoing road demarcation in Lokwilili and extended a similar suspension in Nyamini, where communities in Illakare, Kuda Lo’Dimi, Nyua and Tijor were asked to hold consultations to resolve disputes peacefully.

Despite the challenges, Hon. Brown assured citizens that the overall security situation in Central Equatoria remains stable. He emphasised that the government will continue working with communities to ensure peace, safety, and lawful development across the state.

Juba Drug Exhibit Reveals Crisis Behind Youth Deaths