South Sudan’s Ministry of Interior on Tuesday reinstated the operation of CCTV surveillance cameras in Juba, marking the end of a four-year hiatus. Angelina Teny, the Minister for Interior, issued a stern warning to criminals during the launch, emphasizing that their illicit activities would now be closely monitored.
“ICT is a crucial tool in combating crimes, and now, anyone in Juba should be aware that all their actions are under scrutiny. Don’t assume you can commit a crime and escape consequences; if you engage in any criminal activity, we will apprehend you right from your home,” Angelina declared.
She disclosed that the CCTV coverage spans the entirety of Juba, with plans to expand its reach to the city’s outskirts and eventually to other states. “This ICT system now blankets the entire Juba area, and we are actively exploring ways to extend its coverage beyond the outskirts, including Sherikat and the surrounding areas. It will also reach the states, sending a clear message to criminals that their days are numbered. Starting today, cease criminal activities and seek legitimate employment to support your family, whether married or unmarried,” she asserted.
The Interior Minister highlighted the forthcoming activities as the country approaches elections, underscoring the ministry’s commitment to ensuring security for a smooth electoral process. Angelina elaborated, stating, “We are gearing up for various activities, particularly the upcoming elections. The timing is not our concern; our focus is on preparing ourselves to create a safe and secure environment that lends credibility to the electoral process.”
“Our primary concern is to collaborate with our partners in establishing a secure environment that fosters credibility and political inclusivity for all participants in the election. We rely on our partners to work with us in this endeavour. Our aim is to equip our police force to excel and act responsibly,” Angelina affirmed.
In addition, Inspector General of Police, General Atem Marol Biar stated that the entirety of Juba is now monitored by CCTV Surveillance camera system. He issued directives to enhance monitoring in specific departments, stating, “My directive to the Assistant IGP for Traffic is to assign one person to monitor the traffic officers, one for professional standards, and another for the Criminal Investigation Department (CID).”
Identifying key issues, he pointed out, “Our problems lie in two areas. Firstly, there is an issue with traffic officers collecting money improperly, tarnishing the name of the police. The people at the airport should also assign someone here to stop extortion. In the short time we’ve had the CCTV in operation, we’ve already identified individuals illegally collecting money, and they should be promptly arrested. The video evidence will be presented to them, and this is how we are going to address the issue with traffic.”
IGP Marol emphasized his commitment to instilling discipline within the force, starting with the generals. He made it clear that any officer uncomfortable with discipline should consider resigning. Marol asserted, “I want to establish discipline. While I excel in many areas, discipline is crucial. It is what has brought success to this country. Anyone lacking discipline will not find peace under my administration. Currently, three Generals are in different prisons in Juba, Majok is suspended, Abdallah is suspended, and Madang is in prison, and this will continue.”
“I will be very tough on the Generals; I will establish discipline between the generals and low-ranking officers. Anyone who doesn’t like it should step out, and those who are willing can continue with me. Generals, I will start the issue of discipline with you. We cannot move forward without discipline. If we discipline ourselves, then we can discipline the force. We cannot discipline the force before we discipline ourselves,” Gen. Marol affirmed.
He revealed that the CCTV surveillance camera, inactive for over four years, required a modest investment of 83,300 U.S. dollars. Upon assuming office, he promptly ordered the restoration of this crucial service. Additionally, the IGP instructed police operation vehicles, previously serviced in garages, to be towed to the ICT Headquarters in Buluk for future servicing, emphasizing that cars will be maintained centrally.
Gen. Marol addressed a concerning issue of officers engaging in the unauthorized removal and sale of spare parts from armoured personnel carriers (APCs) and tanks. “By the time I came, I found the tanks and APCs were damaged, and vital spare parts were removed and sold. I ordered those involved to be taken to court and imprisoned. After their imprisonment, I allocated funds to repair the equipment, and now these APCs are fully operational,” he reported.
Furthermore, he shared a mission-related incident where Lt. Col. Philip Kuc effectively repaired and maintained vehicles. Gen. Marol emphasized the importance of asset management, stating, “The most crucial thing I want is the management of assets. Once these cars are serviced, I don’t want them moving around aimlessly. We need proper management; otherwise, we’ll continue repairing without end.”