The move comes after a high-profile ambush on Thursday in the Mogiri area, where the Director-General in the Jonglei State Ministry of Health, Reath Koang, was targeted by unidentified gunmen.
Jonglei State’s Minister for Information, Nyamar Lony, confirmed the incident and condemned the escalating insecurity along the vital transport corridor.
“The attack on our health official is not just a crime against one individual, but an assault on public service delivery and the right of our people to travel safely. We are urging the national government and security forces to act swiftly and decisively to protect civilians.”
In response, the SSPDF has pledged to increase patrols and establish additional checkpoints along the highway, which connects the capital, Juba, with Bor, the capital of Jonglei State.
The route is a crucial lifeline for trade, humanitarian access, and civilian movement between the two regions.
SSPDF Spokesperson Maj. Gen. Lul Ruai Koang acknowledged the rising threats, expressing concern over the frequency and intensity of recent ambushes.
“The rate at which vehicles are being ambushed and sprayed with bullets is increasing, so it is a source of worry and concern,” Gen. Koang said. “It will be brought to the attention of the incoming Chief of Defence Forces so that operational measures are taken to curb this upsurge in road ambushes.”
He added that the increased military presence aims to restore safety and confidence among civilians and travellers who depend on the highway daily.
Meanwhile, state authorities and residents are calling for long-term solutions to address the insecurity, including the relocation of the cattle auction centre in Mogiri, which they claim has become a haven for criminal activities.
