The government of Eastern Equatoria State has urged the Greater Pibor Administrative Area (GPAA) to facilitate the return of hundreds of cattle allegedly stolen during recent attacks in Kapoeta East County.
The appeal comes after a series of violent incidents blamed on suspected Murle youths, which left 27 people dead and more than 25 injured.
Authorities in Eastern Equatoria reported that over 800 cattle were stolen during the raids, with an additional 200 killed. The attacks have exacerbated tensions between communities, prompting calls for immediate intervention to prevent further violence.
Earlier this week, officials in Kapoeta East claimed that suspected Murle raiders were killed during clashes in the area. However, GPAA authorities have denied these reports.
Elia John Ahaji, Eastern Equatoria’s Minister of Information and Communication, emphasized the devastating impact of the cattle raids on local livelihoods. He also raised concerns about alleged preparations by Murle youths for further attacks in Greater Kapoeta.
“We urge the leadership of GPAA to identify and return the cattle to their rightful owners, as their livelihoods have been severely affected,” Ahaji said. “We are also receiving alarming reports that the same group is mobilizing for a larger raid targeting Eastern Equatoria. We call on GPAA authorities to intervene and ensure these activities cease, as they threaten the security of our people.”
Ahaji appealed for peaceful coexistence, stating, “We are one people and should not wage attacks against our fellow brothers. Let us continue to promote peace, as conflicts are counterproductive and regrettable.”
Abdalla Angelo Lokeno, Commissioner of Kapoeta East County, highlighted the abduction of over 45 women during the attacks and called for urgent action to address the crisis. He urged Murle youths to reject violence and cattle raids, emphasizing the importance of education and dialogue.
“Do not abduct people’s children. Conflict is not good. We want you to take your children to schools, just as we do in Narus, Kapoeta, Kapoeta North, and Kuron. We are ready to open roads for you to come to Kapoeta peacefully,” Lokeno said.
In response, GPAA’s Minister of Information and Communication, John Werchum Juk, denied the allegations of cattle raids and the reported deaths of Murle youths. He stated that he could not confirm the details without further investigation.
“I don’t have a detailed government report at this time. I need to meet with the chief before issuing an official statement,” Juk said.