The Nile river. (Courtesy).

A lawmaker representing Unity State in the Council of States is calling on the government to provide security escort to transport vessels along the Nile river.

Riaw Gatlier made the call after the deadly attack on a boat between Juba and Mangalla on Tuesday this week.

Ten people are feared dead after armed men opened fire on a stationary boat loaded with humanitarian supplies at Gondokoro in Juba County.

Only one person survived, and one body has been recovered.

Honorable Gatlier said there are illegal and unnecessary river checkpoints from Kondukoro to the Sudd wetland.

Speaking to reporters in Juba, he calls on security forces to dismantle the checkpoints and secure travelers along the river.

“Those illegal checkpoints should be cleared. The government must establish special operation force to clear and dismantle them now,” the lawmaker said.

He adds: “The government should also establish escort for boats and river transport vessels.”

He adds that it is important to prioritize the protection of goods and people passing through the river, which connects to many states.

“Since these windows are very important for some states, starting from Jonglei, Upper Nile, Unity, Lakes and beyond, it should be given the care that it needs, because it is about the life of our people, and properties and even the life of the businessmen that are taking commercial items for their survival.”