Sudanese trader arrested in Leer over alleged SSP 5 million fraud

BENTIU – A Sudanese trader has been arrested in Leer County in South Sudan’s Unity State after allegedly fleeing with 5 million South Sudanese Pounds (SSP) belonging to local traders, authorities confirmed.

The suspect, whose identity was not immediately disclosed by police, was apprehended following coordinated efforts between law enforcement agencies in Leer County and neighbouring Koch County.

Police said the trader attempted to escape to Sudan after allegedly misappropriating money entrusted to him through informal business arrangements with traders in Leer.

Leer County Police Director General, Samuel Machul, told reporters that the case centres on a breach of trust involving commodity sales.

According to Machul, local traders, with the involvement of community leaders, had provided the suspect with goods to sell on their behalf.

Under the arrangement, the trader was expected to sell the commodities, deduct an agreed commission or interest, and return the remaining proceeds to the owners.

“After selling the commodities, the trader failed to return the money to the traders, which amounts to about 5 million SSP,” Machul said. “Instead, he attempted to flee to Sudan.”

Police said the suspect initially escaped from Leer, prompting authorities to alert neighbouring counties. Through communication with the Koch County police administration, the suspect was arrested on Wednesday and later transferred back to Leer County, where the alleged offence was committed.

Machul said the suspect has admitted receiving the money from local traders and remains in police custody. He added that the trader will be transferred to court once investigations are concluded, and that other individuals who may have facilitated the transaction could also be questioned.

“This is the first time such a case has occurred in Leer County since I was deployed here,” Machul said, praising the community for its cooperation with police.

“We appreciate the community for respecting the law and supporting the work of law enforcement. This is what the government expects from citizens.”

Incidents involving disputes between traders and middlemen are not uncommon in parts of South Sudan, where informal trading systems are widely practised.

Authorities have continued to urge traders to formalise business agreements and involve legal institutions, especially when dealing with large sums of money, to reduce the risk of fraud. The suspect remains detained in Leer County as police prepare the case for prosecution.