Major General Kon John Akot, Director of the national Traffic Police. (Photo: Courtesy).

The National Traffic Police has directed officers and the public to stop recording and posting government-related information on social media without authorization.

Assistant Inspector General of Police for Traffic Affairs, Lieutenant General Kon John Akot, stated that recent online videos involving traffic officers present events differently from what occurred on the ground.

General Akot stated that disputes between traffic officers and citizens on public roads are individual actions and do not represent the police institution. He noted that publicizing these actions impacts the image of the state and the police force.

Addressing a recorded altercation between officers and citizens, General Akot instructed traffic officers to execute their duties and advised citizens with grievances to report through legal channels or contact Members of Parliament.

“I would like to address the altercation that took place between traffic police officers and certain citizens—an incident that was filmed and circulated on social media,” General Akot said. “The reality differs from how it was portrayed; an individual’s conduct and behavior can reflect poorly on the state and everyone involved. We must respect government decisions; if a misunderstanding or problem arises, you have the right to seek redress through Members of Parliament.”

General Akot stated that the Traffic Police will continue regulating traffic and maintaining road safety.

The statement follows disputes in Juba between traffic police and motorcycle taxi riders, which caused traffic delays. Earlier this year, a police officer faced trial over an assault on a rickshaw rider in Juba.