Central Equatoria State Leaders Investigate Surge in Alleged Land Grabbing
Authorities in Central Equatoria State have initiated a high-level investigation following increasing reports of illegal land occupation and sales around Juba, amid rising public concern over disputed ownership and encroachment.
Deputy Governor Paulino Lukudu Obede led a delegation from the State Security Committee on Tuesday to assess areas highlighted in official reports, including Kadoro Village in Rajaf Payam and the Don Bosco vicinity, both of which have documented cases of illegal settlements and unapproved land transactions.
Following the visit, Hon. Leon Abe Brown, Minister of Local Government and Law Enforcement Agencies, disclosed that the state has substantiated complaints regarding individuals unlawfully occupying land and reselling plots to unsuspecting buyers.
“We are observing clear evidence of individuals taking land from private citizens, institutions, and even the Church, and fraudulently selling it,” the Minister stated, describing this practice as a growing threat to both security and community cohesion.
Among the alarming cases cited was an alleged attempt to seize property belonging to St. Vincent Church, which is home to essential schools and health services for local residents.
Hon. Abe Brown cautioned that illegal occupation and unregulated sales could escalate tensions and undermine both traditional and statutory land administration systems. He urged residents to seek land allocations exclusively through recognized legal channels.
The assessment team comprised senior state officials, security representatives, and local authorities, all of whom committed to enforcing stricter measures to combat unauthorized settlements.
The Central Equatoria State Government, under the leadership of Governor Emmanuel Adil Anthony, expressed strong condemnation of land grabbing, reiterating its dedication to safeguarding public, institutional, and private land designated for community development.
Officials indicate that further investigations and legal actions are anticipated as the state seeks to enhance oversight regarding land allocation and ownership disputes.
