By Matik Kueth
The Commissioner of Yei River County, Central Equatoria State (CES), Emmanuel Taban Seme, issued a directive on Tuesday for a security-led crackdown on stray animals wandering the town’s streets and highways, aiming to restore order and improve public safety.
The move responds to growing public frustration over untethered animals, especially goats, sheep, and cattle, which often cause traffic hazards and damage farms and gardens.
Despite numerous public awareness campaigns urging residents to contain their livestock, many continue to ignore these regulations.
Seme explained that after trying community outreach and media messaging without success, the county has now resorted to active law enforcement to enforce longstanding livestock control laws.
“We are tired of raising awareness through radios, community gatherings, and dialogue. We have now resorted to law enforcement to implement the orders,” Seme said.
A task force comprising police, prison service personnel, wildlife officers, and members of the South Sudan People’s Defense Forces (SSDPF) has been deployed to seize any stray animals found roaming urban areas.
The commissioner noted that the operation started promptly, with more than 34 goats impounded near the Civil Hospital and Freedom Square within the first hour.
He confirmed that the livestock sweep will continue for the next two weeks, aiming to reduce conflicts between livestock owners and crop farmers, especially as communities face economic hardship.
“We will continue this operation for two weeks to round up all roaming animals in town and prevent further conflict between farmers and livestock owners, especially during these economically challenging times,” he stated.
The local government hopes this strong operation will bring discipline to livestock ownership and reduce disputes over property damage and public nuisance.