Two Abducted Children Found and Returned to Families in Central Equatoria

(JUBA) – The Government of Central Equatoria State has reunited two children who were among five abducted from Lokiliri Payam earlier this year. The handover took place in Juba on 30 September 2025.

The ceremony was led by Greater Pibor’s Minister of Gender, Child and Social Welfare, Hon. Elizabeth Kumen Teny, and the children were formally received by H.E. Paulino Lukudu Obede, Deputy Governor of Central Equatoria State.

Hon. Teny praised the cooperation between the two state governments and pledged continued efforts to locate the remaining children and prevent future abductions. She said the rescue shows the importance of working together to protect children and uphold their rights.

Central Equatoria’s Gender Minister, Hon. Zendia Eluzai Abu, commended Greater Pibor’s commitment, and promised that those responsible for the abductions would be held accountable. She also confirmed that the rescued children will receive counselling and care to help them recover from the ordeal.

Both governments used the occasion to reaffirm their commitment to ending child abductions in South Sudan. Officials highlighted the importance of collaboration between states, local authorities, and communities to ensure the safety and wellbeing of children.

Authorities said operations to rescue the remaining three children are ongoing, and both state governments called on communities to report any cases of abduction immediately. They urged vigilance and cooperation to ensure children can live safely in their homes and communities.