The Mayor of Wau town has issued a local order banning sale of fuel in the black markets.

Elia Kamilo Dimo says the order came into force on Wednesday evening.

A litter of petrol or diesel, which was sold at 17 pounds at the petrol stations, is now selling at 50 pounds in the black market in Wau town.

But the refilling stations have been closed. Some managers who are South Sudanese have been arrested while foreigners have been expelled from the state.

The state government accuses them of hoarding the fuel and supplying it to the black market.

Mr Kamilo says those found selling the fuel in the black market after this order will be arrested, or pay a fine of 10,000 pounds.

Last week, Wau town municipal council authorities said security personnel seized 68 barrels of fuel from dealers intending to supply it in the black markets.