Warrap calls for good neighborliness with Unity state

By Ngor Arol Garang

January 9 2010 (KHARTOUM) — Days after bloody cattle raids in Tonj East County of Warrap State, authorities and intellectuals from the area today called for good neighborliness with the Unity state.

SPLM Secretary General in the state, Makuc Makuc, said Warrap and Unity State history is rich with ties full of understanding and cooperation. He said this particular relation should continue but was quick to warn against exploitation by criminals.

Yesterday, Warrap State Deputy Governor Sabino Makana acknowledged death of 139 people in recent raiding and stolen of hundred herds of cattle in Tonj East County by criminal allegedly believed to be members of one of the Nuer section from Unity State.

The official was also quoted confirming the situation returned to normal saying it is calm. “We are following how to addressing it so retaliatory attacks are avoided,” he further said.

The government of unity state also has condemned the attack and held an emergency meeting. A delegation of officials from the state security apparatus is on move to the scene to meet delegation from Warrap reported to be already on the site to take decisions on how to recover stolen cows.

The authorities from both sides expressed utmost sympathies and said expected honest and comprehensive report from two delegations.

“Despite this, our sisterly ties will go on,” said William Tuil, Unity State advisor to the governor on peace, reconciliation and border relations from Bentiu adding that his government was shocked and are living through very hard times but vowed to keep better relations with Warrap.

He said the problem is that there are no visible security forces guarding and monitoring criminal activities at the borders, but said there are plans set up to guarantee safety.

Authorities in Warrap have confirmed that wounded victims were taken to Marial Lou hospital where medical services are being provided.

(ST)