SSPDF removes roadblocks, deploys ahead of festive season

JUBA – South Sudan’s army, the South Sudan People’s Defense Forces (SSPDF), on Thursday announced the removal of all illegal roadblocks and tax collection points across the country, following orders from President Salva Kiir.

The move comes after weeks of protests from truck drivers from neighboring countries, who had refused to enter South Sudan due to alleged extortion by security forces at borders and along major highways.

“In coordination with other organized forces, SSPDF, as the lead security agency, has finalized and rolled out all the necessary arrangements and preparations to enhance security and protection of the people of South Sudan and foreign nationals during this festive season,” the SSPDF said in a statement extended to Sudans Post by its spokesman Maj. Gen. Lul Ruai Koang.

“First and foremost, the Joint Security Forces, under the overall command of Lt. Gen. Thoi Chany Reat, began by the implementation of the Commander-in-Chief’s orders on the removal of all illegal roadblocks and banning of unauthorized collection of taxes,” the statement added.

Lul specified that all illegal checkpoints along major routes, including the Juba-Nimule Highway, Juba-Bor Road, Juba-Keji Kejo Road, and Juba-Maridi Road, have been removed.

“To ensure the prevention of the re-establishment of illegal roadblocks and or checkpoints, SSPDF is currently deploying Standby Forces along the aforementioned major roads,” he said.

The SSPDF also announced increased security measures within Juba ahead of the Christmas and New Year’s holidays.

“As of today (Thursday), 19 December 2024, Joint Security Forces will commence deployment within and around Juba town with the massing of security personnel around major roundabouts, markets, transport hubs, recreational centers, and religious sites. Joint security forces will conduct vehicular and foot patrols with special focus on hotspots areas known for higher rates of criminal activities,” the statement said.

“To ensure Christmas and New Year’s celebrations are conducted in a very peaceful and conducive environment, SSPDF leadership/command urges all citizens and foreign nationals to cooperate with security forces as well as report any suspicious activities for preventative and pre-emptive measures to be taken,” the statement added.

On the security situation in Tambura County, Western Equatoria State, Gen. Ruai said the army has deployed a battalion-sized force to restore law and order.

“Finally, SSPDF Chief of Defense Forces and Assistant Chief of Defense Forces for Operations/Commander of Joint Security would like to wish all the people of South Sudan a Merry Christmas and Happy Prosperous 2025 in advance,” it said.