Major General Zechariah Michael Taban, the Director-General of Traffic. (Photo: Courtesy).

The traffic police in Central Equatoria State say they have recorded 77 cases of road accidents in Juba during last year’s Christmas and New Year holidays – a figure lower than that of 2021.

The state’s Director-General of Traffic, Major General Zechariah Michael Taban says 3 people died and dozens of others were injured during the accidents.

‘The total number of accidents is 77 accidents, including 40 motorcycle accidents and 37 car accidents. Motorcycle accidents caused the death of two people, while car accidents caused the death of one person,” he said.

Gen. Taban told Eye Radio that the accidents were registered between the 24th to 31st of December 2022.

The official however said they have recorded lower cases of accidents and deaths in 2022, compared to the 121 accidents and 7 deaths recorded in 2021.

He said the major reason behind the accidents is excessive drinking.

The traffic official cautioned Boda-Boda drivers against overtaking cars on busy roads.

He urges them not to inflict harm on themselves or other road users.

“I appeal to motorcyclists not to drive recklessly, especially in cases of overtaking. I appeal to motorcyclists not to drive recklessly, especially in cases of overtaking.”

“You must make sure not to cause harm or death to you or others. My message to motorcyclists and car drivers is that your family is waiting for you at home and for your return, and I ask them to go at an acceptable speed.”