The recovery effort was led by Maj Gen. Jima Rehan and is being hailed as a key step in maintaining law and order in the region.

By Aguok Chok and Boka Jr.

The South Sudan People’s Defense Forces (SSPDF) Division 11 has recovered 44 cattle raided in Twic County.

The livestock were allegedly stolen from the Messiria pastoralist community by unidentified individuals.

The recovery effort was led by Maj Gen. Jima Rehan and is being hailed as a key step in maintaining law and order in the region.

The Messiria community, which seasonally migrates to Twic County between February and July, has long enjoyed a peaceful agreement that allows them to graze their cattle during the dry season.

This arrangement has fostered cooperation and coexistence between the communities for many years.

The recent theft, however, threatened to undermine that fragile peace.

Thanks to a swift and coordinated response by security forces, the cattle were tracked and returned, reinforcing public confidence in the ability of the authorities to uphold justice. Maj Gen Rehan emphasized the government’s strong commitment to security and law enforcement.

He vowed to ensure that those who break the law are held accountable.

“No individual or group involved in criminal activity can operate above the authority of the state,” he stated.

 The army commander further added that the operation was not only about recovering the stolen animals but also to demonstrate the state’s capacity to respond to criminal acts that threaten intercommunal peace.

The ongoing peace framework between the Twic and Messiria communities, including the local committees, plays a central role in conflict resolution.

These committees are tasked with mediating disputes and ensuring that justice is served in a manner that respects traditional practices and promotes mutual trust. The peaceful return of the recovered cattle is seen as a direct outcome of this collaborative approach.

In addition to the efforts by the military, local leaders and elders from both communities have expressed their support for continued dialogue and cooperation.

They agree that incidents like this must be addressed quickly to prevent escalation and preserve the long-standing agreement.

The recovery of the cattle not only restored property to its rightful owners but also reaffirmed the government’s role in maintaining peace and order. With the joint efforts of the SSPDF, local leaders, and community committees, there is hope that stability in Twic County will continue to improve.

As Maj Gen Rehan made clear, “No individual or group involved in criminal activity can operate above the authority of the state.” These words echo the government’s promise to protect its citizens and uphold the rule of law in every corner of the country.

“No individual or group involved in criminal activity can operate above the authority of the state,” said Maj Gen. Jima Rehan, from SSPDF Division 11.