Local authorities in Mayiendit County in South Sudan’s Unity State on Monday confirmed that they are holding three men, including a policeman, on charges of stealing sorghum meant to be distributed to vulnerable people.
Early last week, the state government dispatched more than 5000 bags of Sorghum to the flood-displaced and other vulnerable communities in Mayiendit County.
The theft is said to have happened during food distribution.
Mayiendit County Commissioner Dr. Gatluak Nyang told Radio Tamazuj Tuesday that the suspects are in police custody and that some of the stolen bags of Sorghum have been recovered.
“Indeed, on Monday night we were shocked when security personnel arrested one person in the act of stealing sorghum from the town square,” he revealed. “During the investigation, he acknowledged that he has a connection with two other guys and that they had already taken some food at night when people were sleeping. So, we have arrested three people, two are civilians and the other is a policeman.”
The commissioner said the theft was unacceptable because the food belonged to the people and that the arrests will set an example. He said that it is not clear exactly how many bags of sorghum were stolen.
“My message is short; let our people be patient because the food belongs to them. There is no need to hurry,” he urged. “Our governor donated this food which belongs to you and everybody must get a share. We are keeping it while waiting for more food then we will distribute it.”