Passengers travelling along the Juba-Nimule highway have raised concerns over the emergence of new checkpoints, despite previous resolutions by governors to remove illegal checkpoints across the country.
Travellers report that security forces at these checkpoints are demanding money from drivers and conducting searches of passengers and their belongings, actions they say violate official orders.
Last year, a forum of governors resolved to ban all illegal checkpoints nationwide. However, the order has yet to be fully implemented, as numerous checkpoints remain operational along major roads.
In December, a lawmaker representing the SPLA-IO constituency in Torit County raised similar concerns about illegal checkpoints in Himodonge Payam, Torit County.
Achan Jennifer, a passenger in Nimule, told Radio Tamazuj on Thursday that approximately 50 checkpoints have been set up along the Juba-Nimule highway, with security forces using logs or stones to stop vehicles.
She claimed that forces at these checkpoints collect money from drivers and trucks but could not identify which military units were responsible.
“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 described the new checkpoints as a direct violation of the governors’ forum resolution and called for their immediate removal. She added that the frequent stops not only delay travel but also hinder passengers with urgent needs, such as those requiring medical attention.
“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, confirmed the presence of new checkpoints along the highway. He explained that security forces often block vehicles from travelling late at night, citing security reasons, but suggested there may be ulterior motives.
“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, denied the existence of new checkpoints, stating that the newly established stations are military outposts. However, he acknowledged reports of illegal activities and pledged to investigate.
“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 urged the national government to enforce the resolutions agreed upon at the governors’ forum and to monitor the situation closely to prevent further violations.