Authorities in Western and Central Equatoria states on Wednesday oversaw the recovery and handover of cattle stolen during recent communal violence in Rokon, officials said.
The exercise was led by Western Equatoria Acting Governor Justin Joseph Marona and Central Equatoria Deputy Governor Paulino Lukudu Obede, as part of efforts to ease tensions between communities.
The officials witnessed the return of 11 cattle to the Moru community. The animals were among livestock reportedly taken by suspected Mundari herders during clashes in Kotobi Payam’s Titi Dola area that left people dead and displaced residents in parts of Mundri East and West counties.
Marona said 12 cattle had initially been recovered but one died from injuries sustained during the operation.
“These cattle have been fully identified and confirmed by the rightful owner,” he said, referring to Joseph Lule Henry, who was present at the handover.
He described the recovery as progress in tracing more than 500 cattle reported stolen during the wider conflict, adding that a further 105 animals had already been identified for recovery.
Obede said the handover reflected coordinated efforts by authorities to restore calm and rebuild trust between the communities.
“This exercise is a result of coordinated efforts to recover stolen cattle and promote peaceful coexistence,” he said, adding that arrangements were under way to retrieve more livestock through a “structured and transparent process.”
He also called on Western Equatoria authorities to help recover any cattle that may have crossed into their territory.
Local officials said the process was part of broader consultations between the two state governments to address the causes of the violence and prevent further clashes.
The United Nations mission in South Sudan is supporting the effort by facilitating dialogue and coordination between communities, officials said.
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