Governor Louis Lobong Lojore (in red T-shirt) pictured with security officials in Torit. (Photo: Courtesy).

Authorities in Eastern Equatoria have announced an initiative to restore peace and stability through justice and accountability in the state.

The state governor, Louis Lobong Lojore said Saturday that the political and security leadership in the state has resolved to bring to book perpetrators of insecurities in the state.

The targeted culprits are cattle raiders, highway robbers, as well as those involved in communal fighting.

“We will confront the criminals coming from abroad or within, who kill people and loot cows and properties. And we decided that it is through these violations that the mission is for peace and justice,” he said.

“We will oblige anyone who has looted or stolen the property of others to recover it and pay a fine. And we will disarm so that such atrocities will not be repeated. Anyone who kills another person will pay the blood compensation to achieve justice for the family that lost its property and children.”

Last year, Eastern Equatoria State witnessed waves of inter-communal violence, characterized by cattle raiding and highway banditry.

While addressing security forces at a military base in Torit, Lobong stated that the peace and justice mission comprising the judiciary and local chiefs will conduct trial sessions to restore law and order.

“We called this task a reconciliation and peace initiative, and this task will include the judiciary and the paramount chiefs to try the accused.”