Security Forces Recover Two Girls Abducted by Cattle Raiders in Terekeka

(TEREKEKA COUNTY) — Two girls who were abducted by cattle raiders in Terekeka County, Central Equatoria State, have been successfully rescued by security forces following a coordinated operation by state authorities.

The girls, identified as 12-year-old Yom Achakarac Kuotwel and 15-year-old Abeny Acuoth Kuotwel, are both from Puluk Payam in Awerial County of Lakes State. They were rescued on Thursday during an operation conducted by state security forces.

According to a statement issued by the Terekeka County Commissioner’s Office Press Unit, the operation was carried out under the direct supervision of Central Equatoria State Security Advisor Angelo Daya and Terekeka County Commissioner Dr. Emmanuel Loku, in coordination with other state security organs.

The operation targeted a group linked to suspected cattle raider Jelle Lo Lobuyu, whom authorities accuse of involvement in repeated cattle raids, abductions, and insecurity affecting communities in the area.

Officials described the recovery as an important step in ongoing efforts to restore peace and stability, particularly under the implementation of the Rokon Peace Consensus.

The Rokon Peace Conference, held earlier this year in Rokon Payam of Terekeka County, brought together government officials, traditional leaders, youth representatives, women groups, and neighboring communities from Western Equatoria State to address recurring violence linked to cattle raiding, revenge attacks, road ambushes, and child abductions.

The conference concluded with resolutions calling for stronger cooperation between communities and security forces, the return of abducted children and stolen cattle, peaceful dialogue among groups, and firm action against individuals fueling insecurity. Leaders also committed themselves to promoting reconciliation and restoring peaceful coexistence in conflict-prone border areas.

Authorities said the recovery of the two girls reflects growing efforts to implement those resolutions and rebuild confidence among affected communities.

A preliminary medical examination confirmed that the girls were in stable condition and had not suffered serious physical harm during their captivity.

Officials said the two girls will be presented to Central Equatoria State Governor Emmanuel Adil Anthony before being safely reunited with their families in Lakes State.

The incident had raised concern among residents in both Central Equatoria and Lakes states, where recurring cattle raids and abductions have continued to fuel tensions, fear, and displacement among communities.

Security forces said operations are still ongoing to track down Jelle Lo Lobuyu and members of his group, who remain accused of carrying out repeated attacks linked to cattle theft and kidnappings in the area.

Central Equatoria State authorities vowed to intensify efforts to restore stability, insisting that armed criminal activities would no longer be tolerated.