Stolen Cattle Recovered and Returned in Upper Nile State

(MALAKAL, UPPER NILE STATE) – Security forces in Upper Nile State have recovered 25 head of cattle stolen last week and returned them to their owners, as the state government issued a strong warning against cattle raiding.

The return took place Wednesday in Malakal before government officials and heads of state security organs. Three suspects have also been arrested in connection with the theft.

Addressing the gathering, the Deputy Governor and Acting Governor of Upper Nile State, Hon. Deng Akuei Kak, warned criminals that the state government will not tolerate the stealing of property. He described cattle raiding as a foreign practice in Upper Nile State and called on communities to join together to stop it.

Hon. Kak praised the security organs for recovering the animals and making the arrests. He restated the government’s promise to protect citizens, guard property and keep stability across all 13 counties of Upper Nile State.

In separate state matters, Hon. Kak bid farewell on 27 June at Malakal Airport to the Governor of Upper Nile State, His Excellency Lt. Gen. James Koang Chuol Ranley, who departed for an official visit to Juba. The Deputy Governor was joined by other government officials for the send off.

Earlier, on 23 June, the Deputy Governor met a high level delegation from the Caritas office in Malakal. The team was led by the Vice President of Caritas Australia, Rev. Fr. Alex Bodmann, together with the Vicar General of the Catholic Diocese of Malakal, Rev. Fr. Stephen Ocir Oman.

Talks centred on ways to boost cooperation between the state government and Caritas to deliver humanitarian aid to communities in need. Rev. Fr. Bodmann said the visit aimed to assess conditions on the ground and find urgent answers for affected people. He noted the delegation would travel to Panyikang and Renk counties.

Hon. Kak welcomed the delegation and recognised the work of Caritas in helping communities. He expressed appreciation on behalf of Governor Lt. Gen. James Koang Chuol Ranley for the support Caritas gives to the people of Upper Nile State.

The Deputy Governor also pledged continued full government backing for Caritas and all aid groups working in the state, particularly on security matters, so assistance can reach all affected communities across the counties.