Security personnel dismantled illegally built structures|Courtesy

The Commissioner of Juba County has warned the public against engaging in illegal land activities after four people were arrested in Gumbo Boma, Rejaf Payam, for unlawfully demarcating and selling plots.

Commissioner Emmanuel Tete Ezbon said the county authorities will enforce the law against anyone involved in illegal land sales, public disorder, or the construction of unauthorized structures.

The suspects were arrested on Wednesday evening following swift intervention by the County Commissioner and the Mayor of Juba City, acting on information provided by local residents.

Speaking to the press at the scene, Commissioner Tete said the suspects were selling plots for 2 million South Sudanese Pounds in an area that is not designated for sale.

“Some armed people came and started demarcating and selling land, offering plots for 2 million South Sudanese Pounds. As you have seen, this is the response of Juba County, Central Equatoria State. There should not be chaos, disorder, looting, land grabbing, or threats to citizens,” he said.

“We came here to warn everyone against illegal land activities, including the sale of demarcated land by the government. I am warning anyone who forcibly takes land from a citizen and sells it illegally, this must stop. As the government, we will pursue such individuals. Those involved are criminals who do not want peace and settlement,” Commissioner Tete added.

The Commissioner further revealed that the suspects were carrying firearms and allegedly used threats to intimidate residents in the area.

Authorities also dismantled illegally erected structures at the site as part of efforts to restore order and prevent further unlawful occupation of the land.

Commissioner Tete stressed that the county government will not tolerate lawlessness and urged members of the public to refrain from illegal land transactions and to report any suspicious activities to the authorities.

The four suspects remain in custody as investigations continue.