“He’s been tormenting people” – Terekeka arrests notorious raider accused of 27 deaths

Authorities in Terekeka County say they have arrested a fugitive accused of killing 27 people in a series of cattle raids and attacks across Terekeka, Awerial and Yirol counties. The suspect, identified only as Jelle, is accused of terrorising communities in Central Equatoria and parts of Lakes State over the past two years. Terekeka County Commissioner Dr. Emmanuel Laku told Eye Radio that the suspect was arrested on June 3 in Juba’s Gurei area after a lengthy security operation. “Jelle has been arrested. He has been tormenting people not only in Terekeka County and Central Equatoria, but also in Lakes State, including Awerial and Yirol counties. He killed many people. The total number of people he is alleged to have killed is 27,” he said speaking to Eye Radio on Friday. “He raided a lot of cattle and even caused the burning of his own village, where seven people were killed. That is why we put more effort into arresting him,” he added. According to Commissioner Laku, security personnel tracked the suspect after receiving information that one of his associates had been brought to Juba for medical treatment. “Recently, we learned that he had come to Juba. One of his bodyguards had been shot in the hand and was brought for treatment. We tracked their movements from Gumbo and continued following them until we finally arrested him in Gurei,” he said. Authorities allege that the suspect was involved in several violent incidents, including a March attack in which one person was killed, two girls were abducted, and homes were set on fire. Commissioner Laku described the arrest as a major step toward restoring peace and stability in the county, saying residents had been living in fear due to recurring attacks. “The peace that we have been looking for, the stability that we have been looking for, and the security that we have been seeking have finally come,” he said. “Since I came into office, my focus has been on peace and security, and Jelle was the main person destabilizing the area. Since the day he was arrested, we have not heard of any further incidents. Everything is quiet,” he stated. The arrest comes amid ongoing efforts by state authorities and security agencies to curb cattle raiding, criminal activity and intercommunal violence in parts of Central Equatoria and neighbouring states. No formal charges have yet been announced, and authorities have not disclosed when the suspect will appear before a court. The post “He’s been tormenting people” – Terekeka arrests notorious raider accused of 27 deaths appeared first on Eye Radio .