South Sudan’s Inspector General of Police (IGP) warned officers Saturday against corruption and bribery, saying such misconduct undermines public trust in law enforcement.
Gen. Abraham Manyuat Peter issued the warning days after Environment and Forestry Minister Josephine Napwon Cosmos accused customs officers of taking bribes to allow smuggled plastic bags into the country.
Speaking at a ceremony in Juba to celebrate the appointment of Maj. Gen. Elia Costa as immigration chief, Manyuat urged officers to uphold professionalism and human rights.
“My message to the police family is that they must act in line with our vision of protecting human rights,” Manyuat said. “We should not engage in corruption or become part of it. We must serve all citizens, including the elderly and children.”
He emphasized that misconduct by security forces damages community relations. “Trust between the police and the public will not exist if our officers—whether in the police, immigration, or night patrols—disrespect civilians,” he said.
Deputy Interior Minister Gen. Mangar Buong, also speaking at the event, urged young people to reject violence and focus on education and unity. “This country was liberated so youth could lead its development, not be used for fighting,” Buong said.
Maj. Gen. Elia Costa, the newly appointed director general of civil registry, nationality, passports, and immigration, pledged to improve services. “This office belongs to all South Sudanese,” Costa said. “It is our duty to ensure everyone can access their rights.”
Costa replaced Maj. Gen. Simon Majur Pabek.