By Emmanuel Mandella

Tensions are rising along the South Sudan–DR Congo border after Congolese forces arrested six South Sudanese nationals who had crossed into Congolese territory for fishing last week.

Although four of the detainees were released, two remain missing, raising concerns among families and local leaders.

Speaking to The City Review, Nzara County Commissioner in Western Equatoria State, Lino Fataki Kuogo confirmed the incident, which occurred near Bangadi, a Congolese town bordering South Sudan.

On Wednesday, February 26, Commissioner Lino expressed concern over the missing individuals and called for calm among locals as ‘authorities are doing their best to recover the two missing people.’

“These individuals had gone fishing when they were apprehended by Congolese soldiers. Four were later released, two remain unaccounted for,” Fataki said.

“I have deployed National Security personnel to locate them. I urge our people to avoid crossing the border without proper authorization to ensure their safety.”

For his part, James Dollo, the inspector of Police in Nzara County, revealed that Congolese authorities have made unusual demands for the release of the remaining detainees.

“We have received credible information that the Congolese side is requesting one carton of cigarettes and a carton of small batteries in exchange for their freedom,” Dollo stated. “If our people are not released soon, we will take serious measures in accordance with the law.”

This demand has raised eyebrows among local leaders and residents, who question why such items are being used as a form of ransom.

The recent arrest is not an isolated case. In a previous similar incident, Congolese soldiers detained a group of South Sudanese youths from the same border region, accusing them of illegal entry. Families were forced to pay $600 each to secure the release of their loved ones.

Mathew Osam, the Criminal Investigations Department (CID) Inspector in Nzara, pointed out the recurring nature of these incidents.

“Our people have frequently been arrested, and their release often requires payment. We are questioning why our government does not apply similar measures when Congolese nationals cross into our country,” Osam remarked. “We have dispatched a team to gather accurate information, and we expect a detailed report by tomorrow.”

Local leaders and citizens are urging the governments of South Sudan and the Democratic Republic of Congo to address the rising tension along the border, as some residents believe that clearer border agreements and cross-border policies could prevent such incidents in the future.

“This is not the first time our people have been detained. The government must protect its citizens by engaging the Congolese authorities to find a lasting solution,” said Yaba James, a resident of Nzara.

As investigations continue, the fate of the two missing South Sudanese nationals remains uncertain. Authorities in Nzara are appealing for calm and patience as efforts to secure their release intensify