Calm returns to Mirikiyo after violent clash between herders and farmers

JUBA – Life is gradually returning to normal in Mirikiyo Boma of Rokon Payam in Juba County after a violent attack by cattle herders forced dozens of families to flee their homes in fear.

Local authorities report that the incident left one civilian shot and wounded, four others beaten, two houses burned, and one woman sexually assaulted. Food supplies, household property, and an unspecified number of goats were also looted during the raid.

Panic-stricken residents fled to neighbouring parts of Rokon Payam, abandoning their homes, food stocks, and children’s belongings.

Officials say the violence was triggered after four cows were seized for destroying cassava farms in the area, sparking retaliation from cattle herders.

In response, Juba County Commissioner Emmanuel Tete Ezbon led a high-level delegation — including security commanders and local leaders — to Mirikiyo to assess the damage, restore calm, and reassure residents.

“We came as a government to see what really happened on the ground,” Commissioner Tete said. “Yes, houses were burned, property and goats were looted. But we are here to bring peace and to ask our people not to run away, but to return so we can protect them.”

He confirmed that security forces have since regained control of the area.

“There is no reported death. One person was injured, and there is a rape case. Two houses were burned, but peace has now returned,” he said, commending security personnel for their response.

The commissioner strongly condemned the attackers’ actions and warned residents against taking the law into their own hands.

“We have farmers and cattle keepers, but cows must not destroy people’s farms,” he said. “The law is clear: if a cow destroys crops, it will be confiscated, and the owner must compensate the farmer or face imprisonment.”

He also stressed that civilians should not carry weapons, noting that ensuring security remains the government’s responsibility.

State lawmaker Joyce Hadia Lino, who represents the area, described the situation as distressing.

“They looted everything, including goats. Children are now suffering because families fled and left everything behind,” she said. “We are brothers. We should not harm one another. I strongly condemn what happened.”

Authorities say security patrols will continue in Mirikiyo as the government works to rebuild confidence and encourage displaced families to return home peacefully.