Summary:
- Katakwi District Security Committee Chairperson Katamba noted that, while military intervention has played a crucial role, some thieves have formed alliances with certain local authorities to facilitate livestock theft, leading to isolated cases of internal theft.
KATAKWI: Cattle thefts in Katakwi District have significantly declined over the past five months, reportedly due to recent floods and the arrests of suspected cattle-theft collaborators.
According to a report released on Wednesday, October 30, 2024, by the District Security Committee, Katakwi has experienced relative peace since June 2024. This improvement is attributed to natural barriers created by floods and the apprehension of local leaders linked to cattle theft, including LC3 Chairperson of Ongongoja, William Omeke, and David Amunu. Both men were detained by the 3rd Division Infantry of the Uganda People’s Defence Force (UPDF) and are currently held in Moroto.
Omeke, a leader from Usuk County, previously an opposition figure, had crossed over to the ruling NRM party at a major event attended by Speaker of Parliament Rt. Hon. Annet Anita Among. The event, held at Katakwi Boma Grounds, attracted over 100 Members of Parliament and a crowd of more than 10,000 people. Prior to his arrest, Omeke publicly stated that he faced threats from security forces and other authorities.
Earlier this year, Katakwi saw a slight rise in cattle thefts. However, following an increase in security measures, recent data from the District Security Committee shows a decline in livestock theft cases. While floods have posed challenges for security efforts such as tracking stolen cattle the district has enjoyed relative tranquility due to heightened community vigilance.
Katakwi District Security Committee Chairperson Katamba noted that, while military intervention has played a crucial role, some thieves have formed alliances with certain local authorities to facilitate livestock theft, leading to isolated cases of internal theft.
Geoffrey Omolo, the Katakwi District LC V Chairperson and a District Security Committee member, reported that flooding has restricted the activities of livestock thieves, providing peace for the community. He added that while Karimojong rustlers previously targeted livestock, recent incidents involved theft accompanied by armed confrontations.
In a recent briefing, Katamba disclosed that Omeke, along with two of his nephews, a soldier, and Usuk Town Council resident Simon Peter Morotum, were implicated in the theft of 22 cows from Poron Sub County, Napak District. The group was intercepted soon after.
Omolo urged residents to remain vigilant and report any suspicious activity that could signal internal or external theft.
Col. Job Lukubia, the newly appointed commander of the Wusalama Brigade in Teso, expressed optimism that livestock theft will become a “no-go” area for raiders and their accomplices, bringing social and economic benefits to the region.
He credited the vice president for strengthening government efforts against insecurity in Teso, assuring the public that impounded livestock will be returned to their rightful owners.
