By Frank Kamuntu
In a series of coordinated operations, joint security forces in the Karamoja sub-region have successfully recovered 134 stolen cattle following two separate raids in the districts of Abim and Karenga. The operations highlight the ongoing battle against cattle rustling, a persistent challenge in the area, and underscore the dedication of security forces to protect the livelihoods of local communities.
The first cattle theft took place in the early hours of February 15, 2025, around 00:58 hours, at the kraal of Patrick Lokwang, a 60-year-old kraal leader from Sarachom Central in Sarachom Parish. Thieves raided the kraal in Lobalangit Sub-County, Karenga District, making off with 14 cows. In response, the Uganda People’s Defence Force (UPDF) and the Anti-Stock Theft Unit (ASTU) launched an immediate operation, setting up ambushes in the Kamarinyang area. Their efforts proved successful, and they recovered all 14 stolen cattle, ensuring the return of the livestock to their rightful owner.
The second incident occurred in Alerek Sub-County, Abim District, later that same day. Warriors attacked 77-year-old herdsman Jackson Okech and others while they were grazing cattle, seizing 120 cows. The swift action of the ASTU’s Olem Detach resulted in a dramatic confrontation, including a fierce exchange of fire with the raiders. Ultimately, the security forces managed to recover all 120 cows, much to the relief of the community.
Mike Longole, the Mt. Moroto regional police spokesperson, confirmed that all the recovered cattle are currently being held at the barracks for safekeeping, pending their official handover to the rightful owners. He expressed gratitude to the public for their ongoing vigilance and cooperation, which played a key role in the success of these operations.
“This successful operation is a testament to the bravery and dedication of the security forces in protecting the livelihoods of the communities they serve,” Longole commented.
In another positive development, the Police Anti-Stock Theft Unit (ASTU) in Katakwi District recovered a stolen cow on February 14, 2025. The cow had been taken from 44-year-old Auro Jennifer, a resident of Abelebuku village, Katakwi Sub-County. The unit also apprehended a suspect, 27-year-old Joseph Akere, from Olela village, who was later handed over to the Ocorimongin Police Post for further investigation and processing.
Longole once again lauded the public for their sharp-eyed vigilance, which was instrumental not only in recovering the stolen livestock but also in facilitating the arrest of the suspect involved. The collective effort of the community and the security forces has sent a strong message to cattle rustlers that their criminal activities will not go unchecked.
The recovery of these stolen cattle is part of a broader effort to combat cattle theft in the region, an issue that has plagued communities for years. With security forces and the public working together, there is hope that such operations will continue to disrupt the activities of raiders and help restore security to the affected areas.
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