Authorities in South Sudan’s Bieh State on Thursday launched a crackdown on illicit drug dealers.
Speaking to Radio Tamazuj Friday, the deputy state governor, Nyang Lul Gai said rising crime rates in the state prompted the crackdown.
“We started in Wei-Deng area of Waat County. The locals there have been planting marijuana (bangi) for consumption and sale. We confiscated about 1 ton of the drug, burnt it and warned the locals against the practice,” Gai said.
He further said the crackdown would be extended to all the areas in the state. Gai pointed out that authorities launched the crackdown in response to the rising cases of drug abuses among the locals.
“Many youth were idle and involved in crimes and families were in problems because of these drugs. We hope that the situation will be good,” he said.
On his part, the Waat County commissioner, Isaac Pur Ruot said 47 youth had been arrested over the use and possession of marijuana.
Those arrested will be tried as soon as the high court judge arrives in the state, he added.
The possession of illegal drugs can result in jail sentences in South Sudan.