MPs Accuse Senior Officers of Organized Forces of Corruption and Extortion Practices at Paloch Airstrip, Leaving Returnees Stranded

Corruption allegations have been raised against senior officers in organized forces at Paloch airstrip for allegedly extorting money from returnees. This move has prevented some individuals from accessing chartered flights and left them stranded, according to reports by members of the national parliament.

The Minister of Humanitarian Affairs and Disaster Management, Albino Akol Atak, confirmed the prevalence of such practices and stated that the alleged corruption scandal has impacted access to flights for returnees.

Responding to the allegations, Defense Minister Chol Thon denied the army responsibility for airports under the Ministry of Transport while raising concerns about corruption malpractices. The airport officials, according to the Ministry of Transport, are mandated to ensure the safety and security of travelers.

Investigations have been launched to determine the culprits behind the extortion acts and bring them to book. Government officials have urged for immediate attention to the situation to protect the vulnerable citizens, who are already facing the challenges of displacement, and safely guide their return to normalcy.