By Philip Buda Ladu
Acting Inspector General of Police (A/IGP) for Criminal Investigation Department (CID) and Crime Prevention, Lt. Gen. Akok Noon Akok, has issued a stringent standing order demanding an immediate cessation of unauthorized daily inspections of shops in Juba’s markets by CID officers.
The directive, dated May 9, 2025, and extended to the media on Friday, unequivocally condemn the practice as “completely unacceptable” and warns of severe repercussions for any personnel found to be involved in such activities.
In an official memo circulated to the Directors of various crime prevention and investigation departments, including Economic & Financial Crimes Prevention, Anti-Vehicle Theft, Forensics, Firearms Control, Alien Crimes Prevention, CID Intelligence, Investigation, and Anti-Narcotic & Drugs Control, Lt. Gen. Akok expressed grave concern over the impact of these unsanctioned inspections on the business environment.
“I have noticed that our officers and personnel from CID and Crimes Prevention are conducting daily inspections of shops in Juba’s markets, which is completely unacceptable,” the standing order stated. “These activities must be stopped immediately as they negatively impact the business environment. Our officers and personnel must demonstrate professionalism in enforcing the law.”
The A/IGP further mandated that any CID officer or personnel suspected of involvement in illegal activities or misconduct within the markets must be brought in for immediate investigation. He explicitly warned that “failure to do so may result in serious administrative and legal actions.”
Meanwhile this decisive action taken by Lt. Gen. Akok comes amidst reports of growing discontent and numerous complaints from business owners in Juba.
Merchants have increasingly reported instances of alleged harassment by law enforcement officers under the guise of inspections, a practice that has been widely criticized for disrupting legitimate commerce and eroding public trust in the police service.
The directive, copied to top police leadership, underscores the SSNPS’s commitment to upholding professional standards, addressing misconduct within its ranks, and ensuring a stable and secure environment for economic activities in the capital.