The authorities in Western Equatoria State have arrested numerous suspects in connection with the theft of 42 bales of mosquito nets meant for distribution to vulnerable communities across the state.
The nets, intended to help prevent the spread of malaria among women, children, and elderly people, were reportedly intercepted at the Bazungua checkpoint while being transported toward Juba.
Speaking to Radio Tamazuj on Wednesday in Yambio, Alison Barnaba, the State Minister of Local Government and Law Enforcement, confirmed the arrests and said the suspects are currently in police custody pending further investigations.
“We received information from concerned citizens, and the mosquito nets were recovered,” he stated. “The suspects have been arrested and detained, and they will face the law.”
The minister explained that investigations are ongoing to identify all individuals involved in the alleged theft, including those accused of selling and purchasing the mosquito nets.
“The government cannot disclose all the names now until investigations are completed and everyone involved is arrested,” Barnaba said.
He strongly condemned the theft, saying it undermines humanitarian and public health efforts aimed at protecting vulnerable communities from malaria.
“Those stealing drugs and mosquito nets should stop immediately,” he stressed. “The government has a duty to protect the community and ensure assistance reaches the intended beneficiaries.”
Meanwhile, James Abdallah Arona, the state’s health minister, warned health officials and the public against stealing medical supplies and humanitarian assistance.
Speaking during a health program event at Yambio State Hospital, Arona said the government would take legal action against anyone found involved in the theft of drugs, mosquito nets, or nutrition supplies.
“Government property, including drugs, mosquito nets, and nutrition supplies, must be protected,” he warned. “Anyone found stealing them will be arrested immediately.”
A youth leader who alerted the authorities about the theft and spoke on condition of anonymity said he became suspicious after seeing a vehicle loaded with mosquito nets at the Bazungua checkpoint on Sunday.
“I was concerned because many people in my area had complained that they did not receive mosquito nets. I informed security personnel, and the police arrested the suspects. They are now under investigation,” he narrated, adding: “These mosquito nets were brought to protect communities from mosquitoes and malaria, not for business. The government and the community must work together,” he said.
He appealed for stronger cooperation between the government and local communities to ensure humanitarian supplies are used for their intended purpose.
Police say investigations are ongoing, and that more arrests could follow as authorities work to identify all those connected to the case.
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