NEWS- The Uganda Police Force has announced the arrest of 54 suspects concerning a widespread cattle theft operation that has rocked the Savana Region.
The operation, sanctioned by Inspector General of Police Abasi Byakagaba, has been ongoing since November in response to growing public concerns about the increasing incidents of cattle theft.
The police operation targeted several areas, including Luweero, Nakasongola, and Nakaseke, where 461 cattle were stolen in 50 reported cases.
During the operation, law enforcement successfully recovered 354 stolen animals, signaling a significant blow to the criminal syndicates behind these thefts.
Assistant Commissioner of Police Kituuma Rusoke, speaking at a press briefing at the police headquarters in Naguru today, confirmed that 40 suspects have already been charged in court, while others remain under investigation.
The police spokesperson highlighted several challenges encountered during the crackdown, including using forged animal permits by criminals, a shift in the transportation methods of stolen cattle from trucks to saloon cars, and using fake number plates to evade detection.
Cue in…………..Rusoke on crackdown
Rusoke announced that measures would be put in place to ensure greater scrutiny of vehicles, particularly saloon cars, which have been bypassing checkpoints. According to Rusoke, is the lenient legal outcome for cattle thieves.
He noted that suspects are often convicted lightly, allowing them to resume their criminal activities after serving brief sentences.
The police spokesperson also expressed frustration with the actions of some cattle owners who, after police recover their animals, engage in negotiations with the criminals, undermining law enforcement efforts.
Rusoke pointed out that this undermines the hard work of officers, who often risk their lives recovering stolen livestock only to see the criminals benefit due to the personal interests of the victims.
Cue in………..Police on crackdown
