By James Innocent
Authorities in Central Equatoria State said more than 53 head of cattle reported stolen in Goja Boma, Yei River County, have been recovered following a security operation.
State officials said the operation was carried out by the Central Equatoria security team in coordination with local authorities in Yei.
Some of the animals are believed to have scattered into nearby bush areas, and security personnel are continuing search efforts.
Leon Ade, the State Minister of Local Government, urged communities in and around Yei to prioritize peaceful coexistence and refrain from confrontation.
“We call on our people to remain calm and allow the authorities to handle the matter,” he said, adding that residents who lost cattle and goats should be patient as investigations continue.
Local residents in Yei River County welcomed the recovery of the livestock and commended the response by state authorities and security forces.
However, some community members expressed concern over recurring tensions linked to cattle grazing and cross-county movements.
Angelo Daya Ladu, Security Advisor to the Governor of Central Equatoria State, appealed for calm, saying measures were being taken to relocate pastoralists from affected areas to prevent further disputes.
Meanwhile, Hillary John Kongo, Executive Director of Yei River County, speaking on behalf of Commissioner Emmanuel Taban Seme, expressed appreciation to the state government and local authorities for their cooperation in addressing the incident.
Authorities have not yet released information regarding arrests or the identity of suspects, saying investigations are ongoing.
The development follows earlier concerns raised by officials in neighboring Lainya County over grazing activities by cattle herders in parts of the county. Local authorities there have cited insecurity linked to cattle movements, with some residents reportedly relocating toward Yei.
Security operations remain ongoing as officials seek to restore calm and prevent further tensions between communities.