Grounding Order Sparks Security Review
Authorities in South Sudan have temporarily grounded four planes contracted to the United Nations Mission in South Sudan after intelligence services reported undisclosed surveillance devices on board and suspected cross-border sandalwood smuggling activities.
Foreign Minister Monday Semaya told journalists that an independent committee was formed to verify the intelligence brief and schedule follow-up measures aimed at safeguarding national airspace.
Unreported Surveillance Equipment
Investigators say two chartered helicopters carried intelligence recorders and missile countermeasure systems that had not been declared to civil aviation regulators, potentially breaching host-nation notification rules.
A senior security officer described the finding as ‘sensitive but manageable, provided transparency is restored’.
Sandalwood Trail Across the Border
The committee also accused another operator of airlifting sandalwood from Jonglei forests to depots near the Sudanese frontier, an activity prohibited under South Sudanese environmental regulations.
Economic analysts note that regional demand for the fragrant timber has soared, tempting informal networks to exploit porous borders despite periodic crackdowns.
UNMISS Relationship Remains Intact
Minister Semaya stressed that the inquiry focuses on private contractors, not UNMISS itself, which he praised for continuing civilian protection and humanitarian duties.
He dismissed suggestions of political friction, affirming that troop movements, base transitions and aid flights proceed without disruption.
Awaited Report and Broader Implications
The investigative team will submit its final dossier to the foreign ministry, which plans to consult UNMISS before announcing corrective measures or potential legal action.
Regional observers argue that the episode underscores the necessity of clearer oversight of charter services supporting peace missions amid evolving security dynamics across East Africa.