The Uganda Police Force has ramped up its operations to tackle the rising tide of animal theft in the Savanna policing regions, particularly in the districts of Nakaseke, Luwero, and Nakasongola. Over the past months, these areas have been the epicenters of livestock theft, with 461 animals reported stolen since November. However, in a notable success, authorities have managed to recover 352 of these animals, showcasing a significant achievement in their intensified efforts.
This increase in animal theft has been a major concern, threatening the livelihoods of many farmers in these regions. Livestock is not only a primary source of income but also represents a form of savings and investment for rural communities. The thefts have been described as economic sabotage by local leaders, with animals being smuggled out of the districts under the cover of night or using unconventional means like taxis and saloon cars to evade law enforcement.
The police’s response has been multifaceted, involving both traditional policing methods and community engagement. “We’ve enhanced our patrols, both motorized and on foot, and we’re working closely with the communities to gather intelligence,” stated Sam Twineamazima, the Savannah Regional Police Spokesperson. The recovery operations have seen the use of police dogs, like Scooby in Nakaseke, whose tracking abilities have been instrumental in locating stolen livestock.
One notable operation led to the recovery of a cash box containing 9 million shillings in Nakaseke, demonstrating the effectiveness of the police’s rapid response and investigative techniques. However, the challenge remains significant, with thieves adapting to the increased vigilance by using various routes and methods to transport stolen animals.
To further combat this issue, local authorities have introduced bans on night movements of livestock, though enforcement has been inconsistent. The police have also been arresting both the thieves and those found offering bribes to facilitate the movement of stolen animals, aiming to dismantle the networks that support this illicit trade.
Despite these successes, the problem of animal theft continues to require ongoing attention. The police, in collaboration with local leaders and the community, are urging residents to report suspicious activities promptly and are planning educational campaigns to highlight the economic and social impacts of livestock theft.
As the festive season approaches, which historically sees a spike in such crimes, the police remain committed to their operations, hoping to further reduce the number of thefts and recover more of the stolen livestock, ensuring that the farmers of Nakaseke, Luwero, and Nakasongola can celebrate without the shadow of loss hanging over their celebrations.
