Cattle theft on rise in Rwenzori, security on high alert
Kyenjojo District recorded the highest number, with 144 cases.
Fort Portal: Authorities in Rwenzori West are increasingly concerned about a surge in cattle theft, which has become a major security threat in the region.
Assistant Inspector General of Police (AIGP) Ubaldo Bamunoba has called for intensified foot and motorized patrols to curb the escalating cases.
Speaking during a mindset change and ethical policing tour in the region, AIGP Bamunoba emphasized the importance of community engagement in crime prevention.
“Partnering with the people, religious institutions, bodaboda riders, and local leaders will help reduce these crimes that sabotage the presidential economic initiatives,” he stated.
The increasing cattle theft cases not only inflict financial losses on farmers but also undermine government efforts to promote economic growth and development.
“President Museveni’s economic initiatives aim to improve livelihoods, but cattle theft threatens to derail these efforts,” AIGP Bamunoba warned.
Beyond cattle theft, the region has also recorded a rise in robberies, prompting security agencies to intensify intelligence gathering.
“Even though we have seen a reduction in robberies, we are focusing on intelligence to address cases where guns are stolen from individuals and police stations,” he added.
To strengthen security, police have taken key measures, including; registering and fingerprinting all firearms to track stolen guns, enhancing intelligence-led operations to dismantle criminal networks and strengthening community policing to improve public cooperation with law enforcement.
According to the 2024 Police Annual Crime Report, 9,514 animals were stolen nationwide, with 3,729 recovered and 5,785 still missing by year-end.
In Rwenzori West, which comprises Kabarole, Bunyangabu, Kyenjojo, Kitagwenda, Kamwenge, Kyegegwa, Kiragwenda, Ntoroko, Fort Portal City, and Bundibugyo, 527 cases of cattle theft were reported.
Among these, Kyenjojo District recorded the highest number, with 144 cases.
Authorities are urging communities to remain vigilant, report suspicious activity, and collaborate with security forces to combat the growing threat of cattle theft and crime.
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