Kenyan Driver Reportedly Abducted and Assaulted in South Sudan

The Long Distance Drivers and Conductors Association of Kenya (LoDDCA) has issued a fresh advisory to truck drivers operating in South Sudan following a reported abduction and assault of a Kenyan driver.

The incident allegedly occurred at around 4pm on Friday, August 28, at the Pilpham Roadblock along the Juba–Wau route, with LoDDCA claiming that security personnel were involved in seizing and harming the driver. 

Graphic footage shared by the association shows the driver being treated after his return, with visible knife wounds, bruises and swelling. 

The incident comes less than a week after Kenyan driver Ahmed Salat was reportedly shot dead while transporting cargo to Wau, while his turnman was left in critical condition. 

In a notice, LoDDCA instructed drivers at Elegu, Malaba and Busia to park their trucks and suspend movement until further notice, while those at loading points have been urged to stop taking on cargo.

“Drivers currently at Elegu, Malaba and Busia are advised to park and hold off movement. Those at loading points are urged to stop loading until further notice. Enough is enough! Our drivers deserve safety and protection,” LoDDCA wrote in a notice.

Additionally, the association has advised foreign drivers in South Sudan to leave the country where possible amid increased cases of violence. 

The latest advisory adds to previous warnings over attacks, harassment and other security challenges affecting Kenyan truckers using the South Sudan corridor. 

LoDDCA has appealed to South Sudanese authorities and security agencies to strengthen patrols and provide transporters with timely security information.

Previously, drivers had been reminded to follow the 2021 operating guidelines, including travelling in convoys and avoiding solo journeys. 

The guidelines also restrict truck movements to between 8am and 4pm South Sudan time, while drivers passing through high-risk areas are advised to obtain police escorts.

LoDDCA further criticised what it described as inadequate action to protect drivers who transport goods along the regional trade route.

“We risk our lives keeping the economy moving, yet our safety continues to be ignored. How many more drivers must be abducted, assaulted or killed before this regime takes action?” the association wrote.