Security forces seen removal illegal checkpoints in Northern Bahr el Ghazal|Courtesy

Some state governments including Northern Bahr el Ghazal, Eastern and Western Equatoria states have embarked on the removal of illegal checkpoints as per the resolutions of the 8th governors’ forum.

Last week, Warrap State governor Francis Marial ordered the removal of illegal checkpoints and road blocks along highways in compliance of the resolutions of the recently concluded governors forum.

On January 6^th, 2025, Northern Bahr Al Gazal state embarked on similar move.

Videos shared with Eye Radio show the commissioner of police in Northern Bahr el Gazal and security escorts dismantling erected barricades along the roads.

Speaking at the state border point with neighboring Western Bahr el Ghazal yesterday, Major General Basilio Thomas Wani confirmed the removal of the illegal checkpoints.

“Currently (Monday), we are the entrance of Aweil town. This is the only entrance to people coming from Western Bahr El Gazal and Aweil South County.

“We are here to implement the orders of the security committee to remove all illegal checkpoints and roadblocks in the state. We are standing here now and the security are removing these checkpoints at the entrance of Aweil town.”

Travelers, mostly drivers of commercial vehicles have received the move with sense of relief.

Kook Noon who is a regular traveler between Juba and Norther Bahr el Ghazal has applauded the government for the decision.

However, he pointed out that there are still road blocks from Cuiebet in Lakes State and in Wau of Western Bahr el Ghazal.

“I came from Juba one week ago and in the side of Rumbek, there was no checkpoints but when I came from Cuibet through Wau, I found checkpoints and it is very annoying to see these robs and the drivers giving money in both sides.

“If the government thought of removing the illegal checkpoints, it is something very good because this what we the citizens wanted. I thank the government for coming up with this.”

Western Equatoria and Eastern Equatoria States governors took similar decision yesterday, directing the organized forces to remove all Illegal checkpoints from their respective states.

In a statement dated January 6^th, seen by Eye Radio, Governor Louise Lobong Lojore directed the state Ministry of local government and law enforcement to monitor the implementation of the directives.