Police in Hoima City have intercepted eleven cows suspected to have been stolen from Kakumiro District, after a tip-off from alert residents forced suspects to abandon the animals in the early hours of Saturday morning.
Albertine Region police spokesperson Julius Hakiza confirmed the recovery and said the cattle are now being kept at Hoima City Central Police Station.
“We currently have eleven cows at Hoima City Central Police Station. Preliminary investigations indicate that these animals were stolen from Kakumiro District and were likely en route to Hoima City abattoir for slaughter or to other unknown destinations,” Hakiza stated.
According to police, the suspects escaped once they realised their movements had been detected. Investigations are underway to track them down.
Authorities have urged anyone claiming ownership of the cattle to present valid documentation, including prior police reports and records proving ownership.
Hakiza stressed the importance of verification.
“Thorough verification is necessary to prevent fraudulent claims and ensure that the cows are returned to their legitimate owners.”
The recovery comes amid a sharp rise in livestock theft across the Bunyoro Sub-Region. Earlier this year, police operations led to several crackdowns:
March: The flying squad in Masindi recovered 24 stolen cows and arrested two suspects, Lawrence Farouk Busobozi and Alex Mukonyezi. The animals had been stolen from districts including Nakasongola, Nakaseke, Kyankwanzi, Luwero, and Kiryandongo.
February: Fourteen cows were recovered in Hoima City, leading to the arrest of Ronald Katooto, 35, and Godwin Tayebw, 38. The animals had been hidden in Kyarwabuyamba cell, Hoima East Division.
Hakiza said police are working with community leaders to break up organised theft rings.
“These thefts not only affect individual farmers but also threaten the economic stability of our communities. Cattle are a critical source of livelihood, and their loss can have far-reaching consequences,” Hakiza said.
He urged residents to mark their livestock, maintain proper records, and report suspicious activities immediately.
The latest recovery of eleven cows marks another win in the ongoing battle against cattle theft networks in the Albertine and Bunyoro regions, as police continue efforts to bring perpetrators to justice.
