By Theophilous Ochang

At least 69 calves were stolen from Lohutok Payam in the Imehejek Administrative Area of Eastern Equatoria State on Friday, in what local authorities suspect to be a raid by youth from neighboring Budi County.

Speaking to The City Review on Saturday, John Ibou Marcello, the Chief of Lohutok Payam, said the livestock were taken while children had taken them to graze near a mountain, as local youth were busy cultivating fields.

“The calves were raided from Loming because the children took them up the mountain and left them there. The raiders, who seemed to be watching from higher ground, then came and stole them,” Chief Ibou explained.

According to the chief, the raiders likely observed the children’s movements from a vantage point on the mountain before striking. Upon discovering the animals were missing, local youth traced the footprints toward the Kidepo area.

Chief Ibou added that such incidents have become frequent in the area, particularly during the farming season when communities are spread thin between cultivation and livestock management.

“It has been happening frequently. Even two weeks ago, cattle were stolen by the same suspected raiders. These latest ones were taken from three different kraals near the mountain,” he said.

He called on local administrators—particularly the commissioners of Budi County and Imehejek Administrative Area—to coordinate and intervene to ensure the safe recovery of the stolen livestock.

“But I doubt it will happen. Every time those people raid our cattle, they never return them,” he lamented, adding that the community might be forced to take matters into their own hands if authorities fail to act.

When contacted, Budi County’s Paramount Chief, Lino Merichila Lochuk, said he had not yet received any information regarding the raid.

“When they are still in the bush, they cannot be identified. I don’t deny it, but I haven’t received any report about the incident yet,” Chief Lochuk said.

The incident has raised renewed concerns about cross-county cattle raids and the need for stronger communication and coordination between traditional leaders and local government officials. The recurring theft of livestock threatens not only the livelihoods of affected families but also undermines peacebuilding efforts in Eastern Equatoria.