Coordinated Police Operation in Leer County
Authorities in Unity State confirm they detained a Sudanese national after a cross-county pursuit that ended on Wednesday. Investigators accuse him of absconding with 5 million South Sudanese Pounds entrusted by local merchants.
Leer County Police Director General Samuel Machul told reporters the arrest was made possible through real-time phone coordination with Koch counterparts.
Alleged Breach of Trust over Commodity Sales
Community leaders had pooled sorghum, sugar and cooking oil, asking the trader to sell, deduct a small commission, and return the balance. Police say the money never came back, turning a routine arrangement into a suspected felony.
Flight Route Blocked at State Border
Investigators report the suspect tried to reach Sudan through remote bush tracks before information cascaded to checkpoints across Unity State.
Koch officers intercepted him near Rupkona and escorted him back to Leer under tight security, averting possible mob justice, Machul explained.
Legal Process and Potential Charges
The trader remains in custody and has, according to police, acknowledged receiving the funds. Prosecutors are compiling statements ahead of an expected court transfer under South Sudan’s Penal Code.
Investigators may also summon intermediaries who facilitated the shipment, a move observers say could strengthen accountability in Unity’s bustling informal economy.
Calls for Formalised Trade Agreements
Unity State officials urge business owners to draft written contracts, register deals with county offices and avoid large cash hand-overs. They argue that clearer documentation will deter fraud and reduce costly cross-border manhunts.
“Respecting the law protects both sides,” Machul said, applauding residents for promptly sharing intelligence and refraining from reprisals during the arrest.