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Seven rustlers shot dead as security forces intensify operations in Acholi region
At least seven suspected armed cattle rustlers have been killed in Uganda’s Acholi region over the past two months in deadly operations by joint security forces.
The suspected raiders, believed to be from Uganda’s restive Karamoja Sub-region and others from South Sudan, were shot dead in Agago and Kitgum districts in separate incidents while attempting to steal livestock, authorities told Monitor.
In some cases, the rustlers were ambushed by security forces, while others were killed in gunfire exchanges as they tried to raid kraals.
For instance, on February 21, a suspected rustler was shot dead, and two others sustained injuries in an attempted livestock raid at Tanzam Village, Adilang Sub-County, Agago District.
Joe Oloya, the Aswa East Regional Police spokesperson, said the raiders were armed but were intercepted by Uganda Peoples’ Defence Forces (UPDF) soldiers and the Anti-Stock Theft Unit.
“They sneaked into the area with the intention of stealing cattle, but security forces got wind of their plans, resulting in an exchange of gunfire,” Oloya said.
“The deceased and the two injured accomplices attempted to raid cattle and goats at around 10:30 PM when they were attacked by UPDF soldiers. One died on the spot,” he added.
This latest incident brings the number of suspected rustlers killed in security operations since January 1 to seven.
Capt Edrin Mawanda, the UPDF 5th Division Public Information Officer, acknowledged that “cattle rustling remains a challenge in the region but said the security situation is improving.”
“As UPDF and other security agencies, we are working to eradicate cattle rustling. There are now fewer incidents of raids compared to previous years,” Mawanda told this publication.
He revealed that since January, security forces have recovered over 130 stolen cattle and goats.
Despite these efforts, cattle thieves have killed three residents and injured four others in separate attacks in Kitgum and Agago districts since the beginning of the year.
Authorities have vowed to continue cracking down on the vice, warning that those involved in cattle rustling will be dealt with accordingly.
Daily Monitor