Arop
By Emmanuel Garjiek
Passengers traveling along the Juba-Nimule route have expressed worries about the installation of new roadblocks, despite prior governors’ resolutions to eliminate unlawful checkpoints around the nation.
Travelers indicate that security officers at these checkpoints demand money from cars and conduct inspections of passengers and their luggage, which they claim contradict official directives.
Last year, a governors’ meeting decided to remove all unlawful roadblocks across the country. However, the directive has yet to be completely executed, since several checkpoints remain functioning along important highways.
In December, a member from Torit County’s SPLA-IO seat expressed similar worries about unlawful roadblocks in Himodonge Payam.
Achan Jennifer, a passenger in Nimule, told Radio Tamazuj on Thursday that roughly 50 checkpoints had been put up along the Juba-Nimule route, with security agents stopping vehicles with logs or stones.
She reported that personnel at these checkpoints collect money from drivers and trucks but was unable to identify which military units were involved.
“When I was travelling on this road, I saw many roadblocks beyond the expected ones. The main checkpoint we know is near the mountain, where people are usually checked. Then, at Aru Junction, there is another. From Achwa onwards, there is no end to these roadblocks – they are everywhere from Nimule to Juba. There could be as many as 50. Every short distance, there is either a log placed on the road or soldiers standing there, demanding 200 or 300 [currency unspecified] from drivers. These roadblocks are excessive,” she said.
Jennifer condemned the additional checks as a clear breach of the governors’ forum resolution and demanded their immediate removal. She went on to say that the frequent stops not only cause delays in travel but also impede people with urgent requirements, such as those who require medical treatment.
“This is affecting us greatly. As a passenger, I am trying to reach my destination on time, but these roadblocks make it impossible. Every short distance, you are stopped, delaying everyone. It particularly affects those who might be sick and need emergency care. The authorities should show compassion and reduce these roadblocks, keeping only the essential ones,” she added.
Andruga Angelo Swaka, Chairperson of the Nimule Town Council Drivers’ Association, acknowledged the installation of additional checks on the roadway. He stated that security agents frequently prevent automobiles from traveling late at night, claiming security concerns, but hinted that there may be other objectives.
“A committee was formed to address this issue, and some checkpoints were removed. However, others, like the one at Aru Junction, remain for so-called security reasons. They are still collecting money from people. Recently, money was taken from drivers. Vehicles move freely during the day, but in the evening, they are often blocked from travelling,” he lamented.
Major David Gasmiro, a police inspector in Nimule, disputed the presence of additional checks, claiming that the new stations are military installations. He did, however, recognize claims of illicit activity and promised to conduct an investigation.
“There are checkpoints, but these are outposts. If money is being collected, it is done unofficially and is not legally sanctioned. The solution is to remove these outposts, as the forces stationed there are not supposed to be manning checkpoints but should be on standby. There is a need for monitoring to ensure compliance with the law,” he said.
Major Gasmiro encouraged the national government to execute the agreements reached at the governors’ meeting and to continuously monitor the situation to prevent future infractions.
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