ABYEI, South Sudan — Authorities in the disputed Abyei region have arrested four suspected drug dealers and confiscated narcotics during a security operation in Abyei town, officials reported Friday.
According to Yohana Akol, spokesperson for the Abyei Area administration, police seized 56 rolls of cannabis (bangi) and an unspecified quantity of tramadol tablets during the arrests. Investigators said searches are ongoing to identify other suspected dealers in the town and surrounding counties.
“The main challenge is the increasing involvement of youth in the drug trade,” Akol said. He added that the administration has intensified enforcement efforts to curb drug-related crimes.
Last year, Abyei authorities imposed restrictions on illegal substances, including a ban on alcohol in shops and public areas, following a surge in crime. Akol noted that cases will be opened against the arrested suspects as investigations continue.
Community leaders expressed support for the crackdown but pointed to economic hardship as a factor driving some young people toward the drug trade. Bulabek Deng Kuol, paramount chief of the Ngok Dinka, said, “Abyei is congested with refugees, returnees, and traders, and job opportunities are limited. But drug trafficking is destructive, and we support the government’s action to stop it.”
Deng added that community leaders will work with authorities to monitor and report drug-related activity in the region.
