By Lodu William Odiya
The Financial Intelligence Unit (FIU) has cautioned Non-profit organizations (NPOs) to perform their work with integrity to avoid issues regarding financial terrorism in South Sudan.
FIU commissioner, John Daniel was speaking during closure of a training of NPOs on money laundering and financial terrorism. He said some people might finance terrorists outside this country but the organizations should be aware of the issues while operating.
“We have to do the right thing; it can be smooth business. People who are doing business here, they can finance terrorists outside the country. So, the soft ground is also the NGOs.” He spoke.
He highlighted that it is easy because organizations in the current situation receive several assistances including cash.
“You are very important for the country but only that, you should be aware that through you, something may happen. There are good and honest NGOs which we don’t want them to be affected” he added.
Meanwhile, the chairperson of Relief and Rehabilitation Commission, Stephen Kueth said Non-profit organizations driven by goodwill and purpose face increasing risk of becoming abusers of financial crimes, including money laundering and terrorist financing.
“Potential misuse of legitimate humanitarian activities as a form for illegal finances, colleagues, to counter these threats” he said.
“Global and national actors, like the government of South Sudan, are working closely to enact laws and regulations addressing the risk associated with money laundering in non-profit sectors by improving registrations, reporting standards and due diligence requirements” he emphasized.
He underscored the Increasing visibility of NGOs, particularly those operating in high-risk areas, or involved in cross-border, promotes collaboration with NGOs and civil society organizations in money laundering schemes and terrorist financing in risk mitigation efforts.
Kueth emphasized accurate, timely, intelligent and ethical accountability were crucial for informed decision-making and effective security measures in security and intelligence operations.
Financial intelligence unit (FIU) is a national agency responsible for receiving, analysing, and disseminating financial information on suspicious or unusual financial activity from the financial industry and other entities or professions required to report suspicious transactions, suspected of being money laundering or terrorism financing.