Yei County Authorities Seize Tramadol and Spirits in Public Crackdown

(YEI COUNTY) – Authorities in Yei River County have destroyed large quantities of illegal drugs and unlicensed alcoholic spirits in a public operation aimed at tackling substance abuse.

The exercise, carried out by county officials, security forces, health workers and police, targeted traders, clinics and shops in Yei town and surrounding areas.

The county administration has warned business owners that the sale and distribution of banned substances will result in legal action. The misuse of drugs such as Tramadol and the consumption of unlicensed spirits have become a growing concern, particularly among young people in the area.

Officials said the enforcement drive was part of a broader effort to protect public health and improve community safety. Existing rules governing the sale of medicines and alcohol will be strictly applied.

Individuals caught selling prohibited drugs or illegal alcohol could face a fine of up to 1,000,000 South Sudanese Pounds, equivalent to about 167 US dollars, and a prison sentence of up to three months. These penalties are set out in the local order and related state regulations.

The operation followed the issuance of Local Order No. 4/2026, which set up county teams to enforce Gubernatorial Order No. 35/2026. The governor’s order bans the illegal sale of unlicensed alcoholic spirits and toxic drugs across Central Equatoria State and Juba City Council.

The Director of the County Health Department, Simon Mosoga, warned young people against using harmful substances. He identified products such as Hunters Gin, Kick Waragi and Muhaba Gin as among those seized during the operation.

He said the abuse of such substances poses serious health risks and can lead to severe medical problems and death. Health officials recovered large amounts of illegal alcohol and Tramadol tablets during inspections across the county.

Major Jimmy Lomoro, an officer from the Criminal Investigation Department who took part in the enforcement, said security agencies recovered dozens of Tramadol tablets and significant quantities of illegal spirits from local traders.

Commissioner Samuel Henry Malimbo said the destruction of the confiscated items was carried out in public to show transparency and accountability. He added that journalists were invited to observe the disposal of expired medicines, illegal spirits and banned drugs.

County authorities have promised to continue inspections and enforcement activities to reduce drug abuse, protect public health and promote a safer environment for communities in Yei River County.