Traffic police in Northern Bahr el Ghazal State have launched a campaign against all the unlicensed vehicles and motorcycles in the state.

The move comes a week after a vehicle belonging to the National Security Service (NSS) knocked dead a man in Aweil town.

Speaking to Radio Tamazuj on Monday, the deputy traffic police director in the state, Major Abuk Maria Akuei said the exercise is meant to limit crimes occurring in the state.

She said the campaign aims to ensure all vehicles and motorbikes possess proper documents. Abuk further said more than 350 motorcycles and 20 vehicles have been impounded.

A car number plate costs 21,000 SSP while a motorbike license costs 16,500 SSP, according to the police officer.

A sector of vehicle and motorcycle owners interviewed by Radio Tamazuj expressed concerns over the high licensing costs, urging local authorities to consider the economic situation in the country.

Chan Akot, a driver, accused police of intimidations and complained of illegal checkpoints where trucks are being overtaxed.

Deng Makuach, another driver, said lack of cooperation between drivers and traffic officers will hamper citizens’ movement.

The drivers’ association chairperson in the state, Deng Madut Deng urged traffic police to strike a deal with drivers for smooth operations.