Human rights activist, residents accuse SSPDF of nighttime harassment in Juba

JUBA – A South Sudanese human rights activist and local residents have accused soldiers of the South Sudan People’s Defense Forces (SSPDF) of harassing motorists at night in Juba, alleging abuses during roadside checks that go beyond standard security measures.

James Bidal, head of the South Sudan Human Rights Defenders Network, said soldiers have been stopping vehicles ostensibly to search for firearms but, instead, demanding unrelated documentation like driving licenses, car logbooks, and permits for tinted windows—tasks typically under traffic police jurisdiction.

Bidal said he was personally targeted by SSPDF soldiers in an incident on Malakia Road near UAP Equatoria Tower.

“What is meant to be a security measure has increasingly turned into an infringement on citizens’ rights,” he said. “Instead of sticking to searches for illegal firearms, the soldier demanded a range of unrelated vehicle documents. This unjust treatment was both unprofessional and abusive.”

Despite producing all required documents, Bidal said the soldier confiscated them without justification and refused to return them.

Two other motorists, who requested anonymity, reported similar experiences. Both said they were stopped at the Roundabout along the Bilpam-Customs road and questioned over vehicle paperwork.

“They acted like traffic police, asking for documents they had no reason to check,” one motorist said. “Even after showing them everything, they still delayed me for no clear reason,” another driver added, describing the encounter as intimidating and frustrating.

Bidal highlighted a stark contrast between the SSPDF soldiers’ conduct and that of the South Sudanese Police Service, praising the latter for consistently demonstrating professionalism and compassion.

“I’ve worked closely with the police during night hours, observing them respond to emergencies, including transporting pregnant women to hospitals,” he said, emphasizing the police’s commitment to public service.

Bidal called on SSPDF leadership to address the issue swiftly, urging accountability for soldiers who overstep their authority or mistreat civilians.

“Any soldier found harassing civilians should face consequences, including being dismissed from service,” he said, stressing the importance of restoring public trust in the SSPDF. “It is crucial that those tasked with upholding safety are not themselves a source of fear,” he said.