Lakes State: Suspected cattle raiders arrested in Rumbek

September 18, 2012 (RUMBE) – Rumbek Central County’s Commissioner, Abraham Mayen Kuc, has reported that 40 pastoralists have been arrested in relation to cattle theft in Lakes State and will be tried in a special court.

Seven people have so far been found guilty by the special court, he said, adding that the county’s mission is to eliminate cattle raiding, which is a common problem in South Sudan.

Lakes State’s government have set up four special courts to solve cases related to cattle theft and communal murder cases. So far in Yirol West County, more then 100 people are awaiting trial.

Authorities in Lakes State say that a lack of judges has contributed to suspects being held for a long period without trial.

The special courts are located in Rumbek Centre, Rumbek East, Cueibet and Yirol West counties. The courts are headed by senior members of society from a different state.

Lakes State Deputy Governor Mabor Achol Kuer has urged members of the special court to be unbiased and expedite the pending cases in order to prevent further conflict in the communities of Lakes State.

(ST)