Drivers in Torit town in Eastern Equatoria state are calling on authorities to increase security along key highways following a series of attacks on motorists and passengers.
The drivers say incidents of robbery, assaults and killings have been reported along the Torit–Magwi road and the Torit–Juba highway, raising fears among travelers and transport operators.
A driver who identified himself only as Sisto told Radio Tamazuj on Friday that motorists and passengers face growing danger along the routes.
“Insecurity along the Torit–Magwi and Torit–Juba roads, and previously on the Torit–Kapoeta road, has claimed many lives, including drivers and passengers,” he said. “We have also lost property to people who loot travelers.”
Sisto urged state security forces to respond to repeated complaints from drivers and strengthen protection along the highways.
“We have been reporting these incidents to the security agencies,” he said. “The attacks occur in locations that are known, and we want the authorities to cooperate with us to improve security.”
Another driver, Simon Joseph, who transports passengers between Torit and Kapoeta, said alcohol abuse among some youths contributes to violence along the roads.
“Locally brewed alcohol and factory-produced spirits fuel aggressive behavior among some youths who target travelers and loot them,” he said. Despite the risks, he encouraged drivers to continue their work.
James Osiru, another driver, said transport workers depend on the routes to support their families.
“We work on these roads so our children can eat and go to school,” he said. “Even with insecurity, we must continue because people rely on us to reach their destinations.”
Richard Hakim, a boda-boda rider who transports maize from Magwi to Torit for sale, also expressed concern about the rising insecurity.
“We fear traveling long distances to buy goods like maize for the Torit market,” he said. “The government should improve security so traders can transport goods safely.”
Drivers and riders say the recent attacks and looting of civilian vehicles along the Torit–Magwi road have heightened fears among transport operators.
Eastern Equatoria State Minister for Local Government and Law Enforcement Peter Lokeng Lotone recently assured residents that the state government is committed to improving security and ensuring safe travel along the Torit–Magwi road.