Juba County threatens to close spirit alcohol factories, shops selling the product

The Caretaker Commissioner of Juba County, Kalisto Lado, has announced plans to shut down companies manufacturing spirit alcohol and shops selling the products as part of efforts to combat substance abuse and illegal drug-related activities in the county.

Lado said the decision was reached during the state’s weekly security meeting, warning that traders found selling the alcoholic spirit, locally known as “Jena Faa,” would face closure, arrest and prosecution in accordance with the law.

Speaking during a visit to Rajaf Payam in Juba County over the weekend, Lado said the measures would also target individuals involved in the sale and distribution of illegal drugs.

“We came up with a decision during the state security committee, and one of the decisions is that companies manufacturing spirit alcohol will be closed,” Lado said.

He added that shops found selling the products would also be shut down, with those involved held accountable under the law.

“Shops found selling these products known as ‘Jena Faa’ will be closed, and [those responsible] arrested and prosecuted according to the laws,” he said.

Lado further warned that dealing in illicit drugs, including cocaine and Marungi, would be treated as a criminal offence.

“Everybody must know that people making this spirit alcohol, including those dealing in illicit drugs like cocaine and even Marungi, is a crime,” he said.

The commissioner’s announcement comes amid efforts by local authorities to address concerns over the sale of illicit alcoholic products and illegal drugs in Juba County.

However, the commissioner did not specify when the closures would begin or how the enforcement measures would be implemented.