SIMPSON M
Livestock farmers in Nyarushanje Sub-county, Rukungiri District, are raising concerns over an increase in animal thefts, which has led to significant losses of cows, goats, pigs, and hens across the area.
Micheal Musiime, the LC3 chairperson of Nyarushanje Sub-county, reported a recent wave of thefts, including a case two weeks ago where 12 cows belonging to Joy Mukumbi of Katobotobo Cell were stolen. Thieves managed to take five large cows, leaving the rest behind, which were later recovered by the owner after an extensive search.
Musiime urged LC1 chairpersons to coordinate with residents to strengthen security through patrols and increase vigilance to address the issue. He emphasized that farmers should be proactive about their security, especially with the festive season approaching, rather than relying solely on the police.
Elic Tiwangye, the LC1 chairperson of Kabaale Cell, added that residents are forced to stay awake at night to guard their animals due to the frequent thefts. He noted that while many cases have been reported to the police, there has been little action, and suspects are often arrested only to be released later, emboldening them to continue stealing.
Elic is appealing to the police to increase their vigilance and take firm action against those responsible for the thefts.
Pauson Kajere, a former councilor for Ruyonza Parish, expressed how the ongoing thefts are leaving farmers in constant fear, given the lack of security in the area. He noted that animals cannot be left unattended without risking their loss.
Kajere called on local leaders to ensure that no animals are transported without proper documentation and suggested that butchers be closely monitored, as some are believed to collaborate with thieves by accepting stolen animals for slaughter and sale.
