news 19 August 2026 Daily Monitor (Uganda)
Ugandan Truckers Detained in South Sudan Amidst Military Vehicle Seizures
The South Sudanese army has reportedly seized at least four Ugandan commercial trucks in Bor City, compelling drivers to transport troops and sparking fears of increased danger and financial loss for transporters. Source: https://www.monitor.co.ug/uganda/news/national/ugandan-truckers-stranded-as-south-sudan-army-seizes-commercial-vehicles-for-military-operations-5563302
Ugandan truck drivers operating in South Sudan are facing a perilous situation after the nation’s army began commandeering commercial vehicles for military use. Reports indicate that at least four Ugandan-registered trucks were seized in Bor City, Jonglei State, with drivers forced to transport soldiers to undisclosed locations.
Two vehicles were reportedly taken at the Laudheli Landing Site, while two others were impounded in Mina Township. Drivers carrying commercial goods, including fish, have been ordered to offload their cargo immediately to make way for military personnel. One driver allegedly sustained severe injuries after refusing to comply with the army’s demands.
This action has sent waves of panic through the Ugandan transport community, which relies heavily on the South Sudan route. Beyond the immediate safety concerns for drivers, there are significant financial risks. Truckers fear their vehicles could be damaged or destroyed during military operations, with little hope of compensation.
Furthermore, transport leaders like Mr. Isaac Katabazi of the Regional Truck Transformation Initiative warn that using civilian trucks for military purposes strips them of their neutral status. This could inadvertently make Ugandan logistics companies targets for armed opposition groups who typically avoid civilian vehicles but frequently attack government and military transport.
“This puts our operators, vehicles, and cargo in harm’s way, making them direct targets for armed groups opposed to the South Sudan government,” stated Mr. Katabazi. Transport firms may be compelled to halt cross-border operations into South Sudan if these seizures persist.
The Regional Truck Transformation Initiative is reportedly in high-level discussions with South Sudanese authorities to secure the immediate release of the drivers and their vehicles and to prevent future incidents. This situation exacerbates existing security challenges along the Nimule–Juba corridor, which already sees frequent ambushes, robberies, and extortion.