The Government of Western Equatoria State has issued a renewed warning to traders dealing in prohibited alcoholic beverages, cautioning that violators will face imprisonment and heavy fines as authorities intensify enforcement of an existing ban.
Governor James Altaib delivered the warning on Thursday during the swearing-in ceremony of Sudan People’s Liberation Movement (SPLM) county chairpersons in Yambio.
He said the state government is determined to eliminate the sale and consumption of alcoholic drinks classified as harmful to public health.
The governor specifically named alcoholic products such as kasongo, Salvador, and various locally sold gins as banned within the state.
He directed traders and sellers currently in possession of the prohibited drinks to immediately remove them from Western Equatoria or voluntarily surrender them to the relevant authorities.
Governor Altaib warned that anyone found selling or stocking the banned alcoholic beverages will face a fine of not less than one million South Sudanese Pounds (SSP 1,000,000) and a prison sentence of up to six months.
He said the government has repeatedly issued and renewed orders banning the classified alcoholic drinks due to their negative effects on human health, including their contribution to social problems and public disorder.
The governor further instructed security organs to fully enforce the directive and ensure strict compliance across all counties of the state, stressing that no individual or business will be exempt from the law.
Western Equatoria State has in recent years-maintained restrictions on certain alcoholic drinks as part of broader efforts to safeguard public health and improve community safety.
Authorities say the latest warning signals the government’s resolve to see the ban effectively implemented.
