Warrap State government removes illegal road blocks

The Governor of Warrap State, Francis Marial Abur, has officially ordered the dismantling of checkpoints along the Kuajok-Wunrok road, a significant route in the region.
A police officer is seen removing roadblock along Kuajok-Gogrial and Wunrock road on Thursday, January 2nd 2025 (Photo by Daniel Mareng Wek)

By Jenifer James & Awan Achiek

The Governor of Warrap State, Francis Marial Abur, has officially ordered the dismantling of checkpoints along the Kuajok-Wunrok road, a significant route in the region.

The governor’s decision came as part of a broader initiative from the president and the resolutions agreed upon the 8th Governor’s Forum last year.

 In a statement to the media on Thursday, Governor Abur instructed the security forces stationed at these checkpoints to return to their respective military units and cease any further operations along the roads.

“The president has issued a directive to all state governments to clear the entire country of roadblocks. It is a national order, and no one is permitted to continue with roadblock activities. Anyone caught maintaining a roadblock will face arrest and be transported to Juba for further legal proceedings,” said Abur.

The move aims to improve the flow of traffic and ensure safer travel for citizens in the states.

Roadblocks have often been a source of frustration and delays for travellers, and the new policy is seen as an effort to restore order and peace on the roads.

Abur emphasised the urgency of compliance, directing all military and security personnel to remove their vehicles and return to their designated units.

“From now on, take your cars and go back to your military units,” he said.

According to last year’s resolution of the 8th Governor’s Forum, the national government in coordination with states/administrative areas agreed to remove all illegal checkpoints along national roads and waterways (Nile, Sobat, and Naam Rivers).

In 2024, motorists plying the Juba-Wau route raised complaints over rampant extortion at numerous checkpoints, particularly in Tonj County of Warrap State. While these checkpoints are ostensibly meant for security, they have reportedly become points for extortion, where security forces ask for loose change from drivers.

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