2024.12.29 Security forces recover 28 cattle stolen during Kotido raid
The cattle had been stolen during a raid by Karamajong warriors
A joint security operation in Kotido District has led to the recovery of 28 cattle stolen from Panyangara Sub-county, along with a firearm and ammunition. The success came after an intense clash with Turkana rustlers in Kotein on Thursday.
“This success is a testament to the dedication of our forces in protecting lives and livelihoods in the Karamoja Sub-region,” said Lt. Col. Gaston Mugarura, Commander of the UPDF 405 Infantry Brigade.
He confirmed that the recovered cattle will soon be returned to their rightful owners in coordination with local leaders.
The operation, involving the UPDF, Uganda Police Force (UPF), Anti-Stock Theft Unit (ASTU), and Internal Security Organisation (ISO), was launched shortly after the cattle were stolen on Wednesday night.
“Our forces acted swiftly to track and intercept the criminals,” said Maj. Isaac Oware, Public Information Officer for the UPDF 3rd Division.
“During the operation, a rustler was neutralized, and a SAR 17373 rifle with one live round of ammunition was seized.” Maj. Oware added.
“This is part of our broader mission to enhance security, tackle criminal activities, and restore stability in Karamoja.”
The security forces commended the tracking team for their tireless efforts and urged local communities to remain vigilant and cooperative in combating cattle rustling.
“This success shows the importance of unity between the security agencies and the community in achieving lasting peace,” Lt. Col. Mugarura said.
Cattle rustling remains a persistent issue in Karamoja, but this operation demonstrates the growing effectiveness of joint security efforts in addressing the challenge.
2024.12.28 Police Rescue Five Trafficked Children in Nakapiripirit
Police in Nakapiripirit District have rescued five teenagers, aged between 16 and 17, from suspected human traffickers in an intelligence-led operation.
The victims were intercepted in Nakoye village, Namalu Subcounty.
Preliminary investigations indicate that the five teenagers, all residents of Lotome Subcounty in Napak District, were being trafficked to Kenya.
Authorities in Napak District have been alerted to support the reintegration of the children and aid in ongoing investigations.
“This operation highlights the collaborative efforts of security forces in fighting human trafficking, a crime that has left many children from Karamoja struggling on the streets of Kampala and other areas,” said Mike Longole, the Karamoja Police spokesperson.
Security forces have pledged to increase snap checkpoints across the region to intercept more trafficking operations and bring perpetrators to justice.
“Efforts to identify and apprehend those behind this trafficking operation are ongoing,” Longole added.
The Karamoja sub-region has become a hotspot for human trafficking, with children often targeted for exploitation in cities within and outside Uganda.
Authorities have urged local communities to remain vigilant and report any suspicious activities to help combat this growing crime.
This rescue operation underscores the need for intensified efforts to safeguard vulnerable children from trafficking networks preying on the region’s disadvantaged families.
2024.12.27 12 arrested in Tororo Police swoop
In effort to combat the rising crime rates in Tororo District, police have arrested 12 individuals suspected of engaging in criminal activities.
The suspects, identified as James Okoth , Denis Opio , Kenneth Wabwire , Stephen Olowo , Benard Owere , Salim Kamya , Aron Omela ,Zadok Opengere , Daniel Wakibune , Alex Maina , Charles Buyesa , and Isaac Ekirapa were apprehended during intelligence-led operations targeting high-crime areas.
These operations were conducted in response to increasing incidents of burglary, theft, and drug-related activities, particularly within Tororo Municipality and its surrounding neighborhoods.
Police reports indicate that the suspects targeted homes, shops, and stores during late-night hours, often from 8:00 PM to 5:00 AM.
Their alleged crimes include housebreaking, theft of livestock, robbery of valuables such as phones and money, and engaging in drug-related offenses like smoking marijuana.
The arrests were made in various areas, including, Katerema, Uci, Amagoro, and nearby locations.
2024.12.24 Cattle rustler killed in Kitgum raid
A Karimojong cattle rustler was shot dead early on Tuesday while attempting to steal livestock in Lodwar Sub-county, Kitgum District.
According to the UPDF, the incident took place at around 1am when two rustlers raided Karayo Parish in Kitenyi Sub-county and stole cattle.
The UPDF says that acting on intelligence tip, its 77 Battalion had set up an ambush in the area.
During the incident, one of the suspected thieves who is yet to be identified was fatally wounded.
“One of the thieves was killed in the ensuing confrontation, while the other managed to escape,” UPDF said.
On the other hand, the stolen cattle were recovered, along with bows and arrows believed to have belonged to the thieves.
Col Patrick Opira, the commander of the 505 Brigade, urged local communities in Kitgum and across Northern Uganda to promptly report any suspected cattle thefts.
He also encouraged residents to invest in the education and empowerment of their children with professional skills, which could help improve livelihoods and reduce criminal activities.
In a separate operation, the UPDF 79 Battalion recovered 26 stolen cows on December 23 in Kiwaro Parish, Lukole Sub-county, Agago District. The cattle had been taken by Karamojong warriors.
“The UPDF remains committed to protecting the people of Uganda and their property.” UPDF stated.
Police have intensified operations to combat a surge in animal theft in the Savanna policing region, with Nakaseke, Luwero, and Nakasongola districts identified as the hardest hit.
Since November, 461 animals have been reported stolen across the region, though law enforcement has successfully recovered 352 of them.
Speaking on the issue, police spokesperson Kituuma Rusoke revealed that thieves are employing unconventional tactics to evade detection.
“Animal thieves are now transporting stolen livestock in salon cars instead of the usual Fuso trucks. They also use fake permits and forged vehicle registration plates to facilitate their operations,” Rusoke explained.
The ongoing crackdown has so far resulted in the arrest of 54 suspects, 40 of whom have already been charged in court.
Authorities have vowed to sustain these efforts, especially during the festive season, when livestock theft typically escalates.
Rusoke highlighted the role of farmers in mitigating the problem, noting that many inadvertently make their animals vulnerable by neglecting farm security or delaying to notice and report thefts.
“Some farmers take too long to realise their animals are missing, reporting the incidents late, which hampers timely recovery,” he noted.
Farmers have been urged to bolster security measures on their farms, remain vigilant, and report any suspicious activity promptly.
Authorities believe that proactive measures by livestock owners will significantly aid the fight against this persistent vice.
2024.12.17 Police Arrest Notorious Criminals in Katwe, Kinawataka
Police have arrested several notorious criminals in Katwe and Kinawataka, in a series of intelligence-led operations in and around the City in efforts to disrupt criminal networks involved in aggravated robbery, phone snatching, and marijuana trafficking.
In Katwe, officers apprehended Douglas Mayanja, alias “Terrorist,” a gang leader wanted for aggravated robbery.
Kampala metropolitan Police PRO Patrick Onyango says Mayanja, who had been on the police watchlist, had recently served time in Luzira Prison and had been in hiding since his release 11 months ago.
In a separate operation, the Jinja Road Police, in collaboration with the UPDF, local leaders, and vigilantes, carried out a coordinated crackdown in Kinawataka’s Centre Zone, Katoogo, and areas along the railway line.
The operation targeted criminals involved in drug trafficking and phone snatching.
Five suspects, including one female, were arrested during the operation while selling marijuana. They were led by Patrick Olowo, alias “Machete,” a known criminal involved in house breaks-in and phone snatching.
Others include Margaret Awori, Allan Okello, Robert Ariaka and Frank Mwezi
Exhibits were recovered, and the suspects are currently detained at Kinawataka Police Station as inquiries and court preparations are underway.
Onyango, commended the success of the operations, noting the importance of community cooperation in combating crime.
“These arrests are a testament to the effectiveness of our intelligence-led approach and the joint efforts of police, local leaders, and vigilant citizens. We remain committed to maintaining law and order,” SSP Onyango stated.
The Kampala Metropolitan Police continues to urge the public to report any suspicious activity to ensure the safety and security of the region.
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