The Kamwenge District Security Committee has banned the movement of cattle between 6:00pm and 6:00am in a renewed crackdown on the growing problem of livestock theft.
The directive was announced during the launch of the district’s anti-cattle theft campaign, dubbed “Catch a Thief,” at Katalyeba Town Council. The campaign aims to strengthen livestock security and curb rampant cattle theft across the district.
Speaking at the launch on Monday, the Chairperson of the District Security Committee and Resident District Commissioner, Africano Aharikundira, urged livestock farmers to tighten security by conducting regular headcounts of animals in their kraals, branding and registering their cattle, and promptly reporting suspected thieves to security agencies.
He warned that no cattle will be allowed to move without clearance documents signed by LC1 chairpersons and veterinary officers or assistants.
Aharikundira said the nighttime movement ban will be enforced through police and security checkpoints, livestock market inspections, and patrols, with offenders facing arrest and prosecution.
In a related move, the district security committee also ordered the temporary suspension of all slaughtering activities in Rwamwanja Refugee Settlement following reports that the area had become a destination for stolen cattle and the slaughter of animals that died from unknown causes.
Authorities said the ban will remain in force until investigations are completed and the situation is brought under control.
Kamwenge District Police Commander SP Arinda Arison cautioned butchers and meat dealers against slaughtering or selling meat from dead animals, describing the practice as a serious public health risk.
He said the anti-cattle theft campaign will be implemented through a joint security operation led by the Uganda Police Force, with anyone found violating the law to be arrested.
The campaign launch brought together local leaders, livestock farmers, butchers, meat traders, LC1 chairpersons, and representatives from various security agencies, who pledged to work together to combat cattle theft and improve security across the district.
