South Sudan's English Daily Newspaper
"We Dare where others fear"

By Jenifer James
The Assistant Inspector General of Police (A/IGP) for Traffic, Lt. Gen. James Ruot Wuor, has issued a stern warning to army personnel against encroaching on traffic management duties.
His statement comes in response to reports of incidents during the recent Christmas celebrations, where some army officers were allegedly observed performing tasks designated for traffic officers.
Addressing the joint operation forces on Monday in Juba, Assistant Inspector General of Police (IGP) for Traffic Lt. Gen. Ruot Wuor underscored the importance of maintaining clear boundaries between the responsibilities of the police and the army. He reiterated the primary role of the police in managing traffic operations, highlighting the need for coordination rather than interference.
“We are the eyes of the government, tasked with upholding laws and maintaining public order. I have deployed traffic officers across various areas to handle traffic operations. However, we have seen instances where army personnel intervene, taking over roles like inspecting logbooks and driving licenses. This is not their responsibility,” James stated.
James emphasised the necessity for mutual respect and collaboration between the two institutions, warning that overlapping duties only lead to confusion and inefficiency. The Assistant IGP urged all personnel to adhere strictly to their designated roles to ensure seamless operations and public trust in law enforcement.
In response to the accusation of the SSPDF, the spokesperson for the South Sudan People’s Defence Forces (SSPDF), Maj. Gen. Lul Ruai, denied allegations of interference, saying that the SSPDF intervenes where there is overwhelming work.
“We are not here to accuse or counter-accuse; the police are responsible for internal security, including traffic control. Our involvement only occurs when they are overwhelmed, and our intention is to support them but not grab their work,” he explained.
The joint operation brought together Chief of Defence Forces General Paul Nang Majok , Inspector General of Police IGP General Abraham Manyuat Peter, and other organised forces to set the ground for the protection of civilians ahead of the new year celebration.