(JUBA) – The Director General of Immigration, Major General Elia Costa Faustino, has warned immigration officers to stop issuing forged documents and illegal passports to foreigners in exchange for cash, saying such practices threaten South Sudan’s national identity and security.
Speaking on Tuesday during a decoration parade for newly promoted immigration officers in Juba, Major General Costa told officers to place national interest above personal gain. He said some officers were accepting bribes to process false documents that allow foreign nationals to obtain South Sudanese citizenship unlawfully.
According to the Director General, officers are allegedly receiving bribes of between 100 and 200 United States dollars to process forged marriage agreements. At the current market rate, this amounts to between 710,000 and 1,420,000 South Sudanese Pounds. He said these documents are then used to issue nationality certificates and passports that should only be granted through lawful procedures.
Major General Costa expressed concern that some officers are giving priority to the documents of foreigners while delaying services for genuine South Sudanese citizens. He said this behaviour reflects misplaced priorities and undermines trust in public institutions.
He questioned why officers are quick to process papers for foreign applicants without proper checks, while citizens face long delays. He added that immigration processes must be followed carefully to confirm whether applications are genuine and lawful.
The Immigration Director General said such actions amount to selling the country’s identity for small sums of money. He warned that issuing illegal citizenship and passports exposes the country to security risks and weakens the integrity of national records.
Addressing the newly promoted officers, Major General Costa reminded them that their uniforms represent a duty to uphold the law. He said promotion should not be seen as permission to engage in corruption, forgery or extortion.
He indicated that the Directorate of Immigration will strengthen internal monitoring and take firm action against officers involved in document forgery, fake marriages and illegal nationality applications. Those found guilty, he said, will face administrative and legal consequences.
The warning comes as South Sudan continues efforts to improve and modernise its civil registry and identification systems. Authorities say strong oversight is essential to ensure these systems support national security and economic governance.
Major General Costa concluded by stating that the Immigration Department will no longer tolerate officers who compromise the country’s sovereignty for personal benefit. He said protecting the integrity of citizenship and passports is critical to the stability and credibility of South Sudan.
Summary of Key Issues Raised
| Issue | Details |
|---|---|
| Alleged bribes | 100 to 200 US dollars, equal to 710,000 to 1,420,000 SSP |
| Method used | Forged marriage agreements |
| Risk highlighted | Loss of national identity and security |
| Department response | Increased oversight and legal action |
| Message to officers | Uphold the law and national interest |
The Immigration Directorate said further measures will be announced as investigations into internal misconduct continue.