By Emmanuel Mandella

Margaret Fozia Emmanuel, the Commissioner of Mundri East County, has warned cattle keepers against bringing stolen cattle to the area.

This follows an incident where 31 cattle believed to have been stolen from Tali of Terekeka County, were recovered in a remote village in Mundri East County.

Speaking to The City Review, Commissioner Fozia confirmed that the cattle belonging to members of the Dinka community were stolen and transported to Mundri East, warning that her County is not a hideout for criminals and their stolen animals.

“I was informed that these cattle are originally from Terekeka County and they belong to the Dinka from Bor or Rumbek. This is unacceptable. Our County must not be a refuge for stolen cattle,” she remarked.

Fozia, who doubles as SPLM chairperson in Mundri East County, attributed the situation to poor communication infrastructure in Magiri Payam, which has made it difficult for authorities to intercept criminals.

She appealed to state and national authorities to support and to strengthen security to safeguard Mundri East from becoming a sanctuary for livestock thieves.

“I am calling on anyone harbouring stolen cattle to return them immediately. Owners should also report thefts so we can notify the security forces to act,” she added.

The incident in Mundri East points to the growing demand for stronger law enforcement and infrastructure development across Western Equatoria. As cattle theft continues to impact communities, local leaders are urging collaborative action between authorities and citizens to foster peace, stability, and economic prosperity.

According to sources, around 350,000 cows and bulls are stolen and more than 2,500 people are killed by cattle rustlers due to the significance laid on the value of the animals to the communities. Cattle mean everything to the communities, from wealth, status, to sustenance and dowry, thus they are guard so dearly.