Officials in Aweil South of Northern Bahr el Ghazal State have decried increased crimes related to cattle raids, saying it is the main cause of insecurity in the county.
Speaking to Radio Tamazuj on Thursday, Aweil South County Commissioner Luka Thel Thel attributed the increased cattle raids to hunger in the county.
He said many people are hungry and are pushed to steal for survival.
“I am talking about cow thieves; the cattle theft caused us many problems. We have seized nine cows from four robbers and we imprisoned them last week but many of them are not traced,” said the commissioner.
“In the side of Ajak North (Ayai), there is a security report showing the presence of robbers in the area. This aspect is fueled by hunger because citizens come with many theft reports. But what we know so far is all about hunger because it is impossible for someone to stay starving and without a job,” he added.
Thel pointed out that many criminals are hiding while others are part of a gang.
Brigadier General Mabior Deng Deng, the county’s police inspector confirmed that most criminal cases are related to cattle theft. He noted that at least one suspect has been tried in court.
“These cases are all related to cattle, not shops. We have not arrested anyone recently. But those arrested previously are still in court,” he revealed.
For his part, Piol Geng Ariath, the leader of the Buonchuai community urged the government to address the matter and prosecute all culprits.
“The robbers are increasing indeed and the cattle theft has heightened. Some are arrested and others hide in unknown places,” Geng said. “If you are lucky, you get your cow, if not you don’t. and it is becoming common to find your cow sold to someone else by the thief.”