KATAKWI — Authorities in Katakwi District have raised fresh concerns over rising cases of cattle theft, allegedly carried out by suspected Karimojong raiders, following a recent raid that left farmers counting losses.
The latest incident occurred in Apollin Parish, Katakwi Sub-county, Ngariam County, where between eight and ten cattle were reportedly stolen last week.
Katakwi District LCV Chairperson Geoffrey Omolo, who also sits on the District Security Committee, said the recurring thefts are becoming a serious threat to livelihoods in the area.
Omolo explained that while Karimojong pastoralists often move into the region during the dry season in search of pasture, some are believed to engage in cattle rustling when returning to their home areas.
“These cattle keepers come to graze during the dry season, but we have also observed that some thefts happen when they are leaving,” he said.
He revealed that security agencies—including the Anti-Stock Theft Unit, Uganda People’s Defence Forces (UPDF), and Local Defence Units (LDUs)—have been deployed to curb the vice, but more reinforcement is still needed.
Despite these measures, Omolo expressed concern that some thefts may involve local collaborators working with external raiders or carrying out internal thefts.
“There are indications that some locals could be coordinating with the raiders. This is very dangerous, and we warn those involved to stop immediately because the consequences are serious,” he cautioned.
Omolo noted that the District Security Committee is actively responding to the situation, adding that some progress has been made in recovering stolen livestock.
“We have managed to recover about 12 animals in Lolacat, Nabilatuk District, and efforts are ongoing to track down the remaining stolen cattle,” he said.
The continued cattle theft has left farmers worried about their security and economic stability, with many calling for stronger protection measures and improved intelligence gathering.
Authorities have urged communities to remain vigilant, report suspicious activities, and cooperate with security agencies to curb cattle rustling in the region.
