Communities in South Sudan’s Eastern Equatoria State are banding together to combat the infiltration of criminal elements from outside regions. Representatives from the Pari, Tennet, Lopit, Lokoya, and Toposa communities met with Governor Louis Lobong Lojore to address the issue, which has led to child abductions, cattle raids, and killings within the state.
These criminals have been leveraging their language similarities with some Eastern Equatoria communities to carry out their nefarious activities. Asis Otulo Okeleki, a representative from the Tennet community, emphasized the importance of spreading awareness among the people to prevent further infiltration.
Emmanuel Justine, the leader of the Lokoya community, echoed the sentiment of unity and determination in keeping suspect outsiders out of Eastern Equatoria State. Minister for Information and government spokesperson Elia John Ahaji stressed the need for community leaders to educate locals on protecting children from abductors and remaining vigilant against any threats to security.