GPAA Administrator addresses chiefs to enforce Pibor-Jonglei peace resolutions|Courtesy

The Greater Pibor Administrator, Gola Boyoi Gola, has warned that anyone who purchases an abducted child will face the same severe penalties as the original abductor, including two years in prison and a payment of 40 cows to the government, under Murle Customary Laws.

Boyoi made the remarks during a three-day Chiefs Peace Conference from 10 to 12, December, themed “Empowering Traditional Leadership for Peace and Harmonious Coexistence”, which brought together traditional chiefs, community elders, local leaders, and stakeholders from across the region.

Discussions focused on criminal activities such as cattle raiding, child abduction, revenge killings, and inter- and intra-community shootings, with participants unanimously agreeing that all abducted children must be recovered and returned to their biological parents. Women were encouraged to take an active role in locating abducted children.

Chairing the second day of the conference, Boyoi announced a grace period for the return of abducted children before full enforcement of penalties begins.

He also announced the establishment of Community Policing Units at the Boma level to bolster security and discourage youth mobilization for criminal activities.

At the conclusion of the conference on Friday, Boyoi called on locals to return all abducted women and children, aligning with resolutions of the recent Jonglei-Pibor peace conference in Bor.

He said: “We want to start with abduction of children and women. You heard the announcement in the media that we returned eight children and women to Jonglei. Here in Pibor, all children brought from other tribes must be returned to their people. For us to have peace with our neighbours — Lou, Bor, Toposa, and Anyuak — we must have peace among ourselves.”

Key resolutions of the conference included preventing cross-border raids and cattle rustling, combating child trafficking, halting intentional killings, curbing youth mobilization for conflicts, and ensuring safe passage for humanitarian vehicles and road workers. Participants agreed that violators of these resolutions would face strict enforcement measures.

The conference concluded with pledges from chiefs and stakeholders to work collectively for lasting peace, improved agricultural productivity, and stronger ties with neighbouring communities.