Authorities in the Greater Pibor Administrative Area (GPAA) are seeking the return of 150 cattle stolen by armed assailants believed to be from Eastern Equatoria State. The attack on a cattle camp in Verthet County was condemned by GPAA Information Minister Oleyo Akwer Nyalus, who called for the stolen cattle to be returned.
According to Nyalus, armed youth from Eastern Equatoria State raided the cattle camp on July 23, resulting in the theft of 150 cattle and injuring one herdsman. GPAA youth have been pursuing the attackers towards Kapoeta in an effort to recover the stolen cows.
The government spokesperson expressed concern that the attack could disrupt efforts to foster peace between the communities in GPAA and Eastern Equatoria. He urged for an investigation into the incident and called on Eastern Equatoria State authorities to assist in recovering the stolen animals.
The strained relationship between GPAA and Eastern Equatoria, due to ongoing cattle raids, has led to the closure of a goods supply route to Greater Pibor. Efforts to reach Eastern Equatoria State authorities have not been successful.