CES officials shut down fuel stations in Juba. (Photo: CES/Facebook).

Central Equatoria State government has closed down 15 fuel stations identified as endangering public safety in Juba.

The decisive action follows a public outcry over rampant construction of fuel stations mostly in densely populated areas across the capital.

Mawa Moses, the Minister of Roads and Bridges, also a member of the second investigation committee formed on the situation, said they have successfully shut down 15 stations in different parts of the city.

He said the targeted fuel stations were recommended by the first committee constituted to assess the city.

“We are a committee formed by H.E the Governor of Central Equatoria State following the outcry of the public in regard to petrol stations that are located in areas that are dangerous to human life,” Mawa said.

“Our committee here is following the recommendations of the first committee and now we are here to close down all the petrol stations that have been recommended to be closed down.”

“So far, this (Wednesday) morning, we have closed down 15 petrol stations including this one and we are going to do more. We have successfully closed 15 petrol stations today.”

The fuel stations are forced to shut two days after a fuel tanker burst up in flames on Gumbo-Rejaf East Road, sending plumes of smoke in the sky.

The area was rocked by loud bangs at 10 PM on Sunday as the fire lit up the sky but there were no injuries. Water tankers rushed to the scene and put off the fire.

In December 2023, Governor Emmanuel Adil Anthony formed a committee to assess all petrol stations being constructed in Juba and shutdown those that pose a threat to public safety.

Adil mandated the seven-member ad hoc committee to probe the rise of fuel stations along roadsides and submit a report in one month.

Thiik Thiik Mayardit, the Deputy Mayor for Social Service said the assessment committee was handing over its report with recommendations to close down several fuel stations.