The Inspector General of the South Sudan National Police Service and the Deputy Minister of Interior yesterday received newly delivered forensic laboratory equipment from China aimed at strengthening evidence-based justice in cases of theft, robbery, murder, fraud and document forgery - Credit: Awan Moses/Eye Radio/June 15, 2026

South Sudan’s National Police Service has received advanced forensic laboratory equipment from the Government of China, a development expected to strengthen cybercrime investigations and improve the country’s criminal justice system.

The equipment was handed over during a ceremony in Juba attended by senior government officials, police leaders, and representatives of the Chinese Embassy. The donation forms part of ongoing cooperation between South Sudan and China aimed at enhancing law enforcement capacity and modernizing forensic investigations.

Police officials said the equipment will improve the investigation of cybercrime, fraud, forgery, robbery, homicide, and other complex criminal cases that require scientific analysis and digital evidence.

Assistant Inspector General of Police for Criminal Investigation and Crime Prevention, Lt. Gen. John Akot Maluth, described the donation as a major boost to the country’s forensic capabilities.

“The forensic lab equipment delivered today under Phase One will transform our capacity and technology in cybercrime investigation,” Maluth said during the handover ceremony.

“At a time when our society faces rising cases of theft, robbery, murder, fraud and document forgery, this equipment gives our investigators the tools to deliver faster, evidence-based justice and better protect our citizens,” he added.

According to police authorities, the new technology will reduce the country’s reliance on foreign forensic laboratories, where evidence has previously been sent for analysis. Officials said the development will improve efficiency, safeguard the integrity of evidence, and strengthen national capacity in criminal investigations.

Maluth said the police service is also seeking additional support under a second phase of the project.

“As we receive Phase One, we also look forward to expanding this valuable partnership,” he said.

“The DNA testing equipment and electronic fingerprint system are critical for completing the forensic chain and strengthening our ability to combat and prevent crime.”

Chinese Ambassador Ma Qiang said the project reflects China’s commitment to supporting security sector development in South Sudan through technical assistance, training, and equipment.

“In today’s digital age, cybercrime and electronic evidence are increasingly central to law enforcement,” Ma said. “By establishing this facility, we aim to enhance South Sudan’s capacity to combat crime, protect citizens’ rights, and maintain social order using modern forensic techniques.”

He said the project includes a comprehensive training programme for South Sudanese technicians and law enforcement officers to ensure local expertise in operating the laboratory.

“Through practical training and knowledge transfer, we seek to build a local team capable of independently operating this laboratory and raising the overall standard of criminal investigation and justice,” the ambassador said.

Police officials said a number of officers have already completed specialized training under the cooperation program and are expected to support the rollout and operation of the new forensic systems.

Officials from both countries called for continued cooperation to expand forensic science capabilities, strengthen laboratory infrastructure, and support long-term institutional development within the National Police Service.