Politics 21 August 2026 Daily Monitor (Uganda)
South Sudan Releases Ugandan Drivers, Trucks Seized for Military Transport
South Sudan's armed forces have released four Ugandan truck drivers and their vehicles that were seized in Bor City for military troop transport. The release followed diplomatic intervention and media attention, easing concerns within the Ugandan business community. Source: https://www.monitor.co.ug/uganda/news/national/south-sudan-releases-ugandan-drivers-trucks-seized-for-military-use-5566434
Ugandan truck drivers and their vehicles, seized by South Sudanese military forces in Bor City, Jonglei State, have been released. The trucks were reportedly commandeered to transport troops for military operations.
Sources confirm that the Ugandan drivers were freed on Friday morning after diplomatic pressure and media coverage facilitated their release. Leaders from the Ugandan truck drivers’ community expressed gratitude for the swift intervention that led to the return of their members and vehicles.
The incident occurred on Tuesday when South Sudanese military personnel impounded four Ugandan-registered trucks at Laudheli Landing Site and Mina Township. These trucks were allegedly loaded with armed personnel destined for combat.
Reports indicate that some drivers who resisted the order to use their vehicles for military purposes were subjected to arrest and physical abuse by soldiers. The drivers were also instructed to offload their cargo and proceed to military facilities.
The seizure caused significant anxiety among Ugandan business owners operating in South Sudan. Concerns were raised about potential damage to the trucks during military activities and the lack of compensation for such losses. The use of private commercial vehicles for military purposes places operators, their cargo, and vehicles at risk of becoming targets for armed opposition groups.
This incident echoes past grievances. In May, regional truck drivers staged a weeks-long strike at the Elegu-Nimule border, protesting harassment by South Sudanese authorities. The strike was called off after South Sudanese officials pledged to address issues like unnecessary roadblocks, illegal charges, and enhanced security along the Juba-Nimule Highway. However, some drivers expressed skepticism, noting that similar promises made in 2024 have yet to be fully implemented.