(MELUT) – Authorities in Melut County, Upper Nile State, have arrested several individuals in connection with the possession and distribution of Tramadol and other illicit drugs, as part of a renewed crackdown on narcotics and drug related crime.
The operation comes in the wake of rising concerns over the misuse of Tramadol, a synthetic opioid classified as a narcotic. Often used medically to relieve moderate to severe pain, Tramadol is increasingly being abused by young people in South Sudan, leading to addiction, erratic behaviour, and in some cases, fatal violence.
Melut County Commissioner, Manyol Ahoch Aguer, confirmed the arrests on Thursday and issued a strong warning to those involved in drug trafficking and abuse.
“The investigations department in the district arrested these suspects who are before me, and they were in possession of Tramadol, which some young people here use. It leads them to commit brutal acts,” he said.
Commissioner Aguer linked the abuse of Tramadol to a recent stabbing incident that resulted in the death of a young man in the community.
“A stabbing crime occurred that led to the death of one of the young men here two days ago, and it was later revealed that they had taken Tramadol,” he said. “The abuse of this drug has also led to an increase in thefts in the market. We will put the criminals in prison to receive punishment.”
Tramadol, though legal when prescribed, is widely misused in South Sudan due to poor regulation and limited enforcement. Officials fear the rise in drug trafficking is fuelling broader insecurity, particularly among young people in vulnerable areas.
The Commissioner expressed appreciation to law enforcement officers for their work and encouraged them to intensify efforts to combat the drug trade.
Further investigation revealed that the seized drugs had been smuggled into Melut through Palouch Airport. Yohanna Monygolia, Managing Director of Palouch Payam, explained that the narcotics were flown in from Juba.
“These drugs that were seized today came via the airport from Juba to Palouch Airport,” said Monygolia. “I appeal to the Commissioner to allow us to be present at the airport so we can prevent such drugs from reaching the county. Our absence from the airport resulted in this smuggling. These drugs include Tramadol and others used by women.”
As a preventive measure, local authorities have closed unregulated checkpoints and sites suspected to be linked to illegal activity.
Brigadier General Joseph Garang, Director of County Police, said the arrests are part of a broader strategy to strengthen public safety and reduce drug related crimes.
“We are committed to maintaining peace and order,” he said. “This operation is part of our broader plan to enhance security and prevent drug related crimes in Melut County.”
He added that joint operations between police, local officials and community leaders would continue in the coming days. Residents have been urged to report suspicious activity to support efforts to dismantle drug trafficking networks.
