Rédaction Africa Links 24 with Uganda Monitor
Published on 2024-04-09 12:31:05
Police in central Uganda have made a breakthrough in tackling the continuous theft of cattle from the state farm in Gomba District by arresting 10 suspects believed to be highly linked to the criminal activities. The arrests came after 5 cows were reported missing from the farm in Kirasi, Ddegeya Parish, Maddu Sub-county on March 29. The Flying Squad Unit (FSU) of the police was deployed from the crime intelligence headquarters to investigate the matter.
The investigation led to the discovery that a cattle dealer named Robert Nyanzi from Lwekibira Village was buying stolen cows from the State farm. This revelation prompted the arrest of Nyanzi along with five other cattle dealers, namely Frank Aliho, Fred Tatuleka, Gordon Tumusiime, Willy Kanyerezi, and Godfrey Gumisiriza. Additionally, four other suspects, including a veterinary officer, a cattle dealer, a peasant, and the farm’s manager, were also apprehended on March 5, 2024.
According to police spokesperson Fred Enanga, the arrested suspects had conspired with workers at the state farm to steal the cows, highlighting the collaboration between the criminals and insiders at the farm. Investigations are ongoing, with efforts being made to identify and apprehend all individuals involved in the cattle theft activities and dismantle their criminal network.
The prevalence of cattle theft in remote areas of Uganda is a persistent issue, as evidenced by the recent arrest of a 30-year-old man in Mbale City on April 1. The authorities impounded a Prado TX car believed to have been used in transporting stolen cows within Bugisu sub-region, leading to the recovery of a bull and a cow.
The concerted efforts of the police in apprehending individuals involved in cattle theft demonstrate a proactive approach to combatting such criminal activities. By working closely with local partners and conducting thorough investigations, law enforcement authorities aim to hold accountable all those responsible for the theft of cattle from the state farm.
The arrests and ongoing investigations serve as a warning to would-be criminals that law enforcement agencies are actively pursuing those engaged in illegal activities, particularly in the realm of cattle theft. The collaboration between the police and local communities is crucial in ensuring the safety and security of livestock and agricultural resources in the region.
Overall, the swift action taken by the police in central Uganda against cattle theft reflects a commitment to upholding the rule of law and protecting the livelihoods of farmers and agricultural establishments from criminal elements. By addressing the root causes of cattle theft and holding perpetrators accountable, authorities aim to create a safer and more secure environment for the agricultural sector in the region.
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