Unity and Warrap states form joint border court

May 14, 2016 (MAYOM) – County commissioners from South Sudan’s Warrap and Unity states have formed a joint court to end deadly cattle thefts along their common border.

Apuk North county commissioner, Kerubino Kuol and his Warrap county counterpart, John Bol Mayak officiated at the occasion, which attracted seven local head-chiefs.

Also discussed were issues of cross border movements and peaceful co-existence among neighboring communities.

Mayak said formation of the court marked the beginning of a new era in building trust between the two sisterly counties.

“Already youth from Mayom have entered Apuk North county to graze their cows there. This is the first time that member of Nuer and Dinka crossed each side’s territory after the incident of 1991 war,” he said.

The court, Mayak said, will be tasked to monitor and arrest criminals who illegally operate along the common border.

“The joint court is mandated to arrest and bring perpetrators to justice. We will collaborate with each other and make sure all borders are free for inter-states trading,” he stressed.

Tut Gatluak, an advisor to President Salva Kiir, mediated in the formation of the joint court.

Cattle rustling is a common practice among communities in Lakes, Warrap and Unity states.

(ST)