Kenyan Drivers Suspend South Sudan Deliveries Over Arrests and Rising Insecurity

No cargo trucks have crossed into South Sudan for four days now, following the alleged arrest of 10 Kenyan truck drivers in Yirol on unspecified charges, the Long-Distance Drivers and Conductors Association (LoDDCA) said on May 2.

The protest by truck drivers plying the Nimule-Juba route has entered its fourth day, amidst a sustained and escalating pattern of insecurity against them, according to LoDDCA.

The Association highlighted near-weekly physical assaults, harassment and extortion and Recently, one Kenyan driver sustained a severe injury to his head after an attack.

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Driver Detentions and Demands for Security Measures

Another group of 10 Kenyan drivers was taken away in Yirol under opaque circumstances on Saturday morning and is allegedly held at an unknown location.

The detentions were deemed by LoDDCA as a flagrant violation of due process and a further crisis escalation.

LoDDCA stated its full solidarity with the drivers for their decision to suspend transport operations until documented and enforceable security measures are put in place.

“The continuing exposure of drivers to violence, extortion and arbitrary arrest is unacceptable and cannot be normalized,” said a statement from the association.

The drivers demand the immediate release of arrested drivers, publicized whereabouts and status, and the punishment of assailants and extortionists, including corrupt officials.

They also require strengthened patrols along the Nimule-Juba route, removal of illicit fees and unclear customs processes, and compensation for attacked drivers.

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LoDDCA Issues Travel Advisory and Demands Action on Driver Safety

The LoDDCA has issued a stern travel advisory warning that further transport into South Sudan through the corridor must be avoided.

High-risk safety situations, including assault, extortion and arrests, have been reported on the corridor and movement should only resume after concrete security assurances have been put in place.

LoDDCA has urged the Government of South Sudan, the country’s security organs and the relevant regional actors to act decisively and responsibly.

“The current situation transcends a transportation conflict; it is a fundamental issue of human rights, the rule of law and regional trade stability,” said LoDDCA.

LoDDCA holds a firm position that transportation into South Sudan through the corridor will only resume after the security, human rights and dignity of the drivers are guaranteed.

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A Public Release Notice Issued by LoDDCA says 10 Kenyan drivers detained in Yirol as Nimule-Juba cargo halt enters day 4. Demands security, end to extortion before South Sudan routes reopen. /PHOTO LoDDCA