Security personnel dismantle an illegal road checkpoint in Western Bahr el Ghazal as authorities intensify efforts to curb extortion and facilitate trade. Courtesy photo.

Authorities in Western Bahr el Ghazal State have ordered the closure of six illegal road checkpoints in an effort to end the extortion of motorists and ease the movement of goods and people.

The closure follows a directive issued by the State Governor, Maj. Gen. Sharif Daniel Sharif, after truck drivers complained about illegal collections at roadblocks along major highways.

According to the State Director of Traffic Police, Maj. Gen. Hussein Girish Yambio, the closed checkpoints include three on the Wau–Tonj road, two on the Wau–Kuajok road, and one on the Wau–Aweil highway.

State authorities say removing the illegal checkpoints is expected to improve the flow of trade, strengthen economic security, and support efforts to lower the prices of goods in local markets.

The decision comes days after the Western Bahr el Ghazal State Chamber of Commerce urged the government to reduce taxes on goods and exempt essential commodities from taxation to help ease the cost of living.

The business community has repeatedly complained that illegal roadblocks encourage extortion, increase transport costs, and disrupt the movement of goods and people.