STELLA T
The increasing cases of animal theft in Buyanja Sub County, Rukungiri District, have raised concerns among residents and local leaders.
The Buyanja Sub County LCIII Chairperson, Agaba Emmy Rubodo, attributes the high theft rates to the area’s extreme poverty, which leads some individuals to resort to stealing as a means of survival. He noted that most of the recorded cases involve housebreaking, theft of domestic animals, and goats being snatched by night thieves.
Rubodo also pointed out that the high unemployment rate among youths has driven many to crime as a way to make ends meet. He called on parents to take greater responsibility in guiding their children and protecting them from drug abuse.
Bonny Tiryebwa, the area councilor for Kyamakanda Parish in Buyanja Sub County, expressed concern that the rise in theft could result in cases of mob justice, as frustration grows among residents. She attributed the increase in criminal activity to local youths and older individuals who spend much of their time gambling and drinking alcohol instead of working to earn a living, eventually turning to theft.
Tiryebwa urged local security teams to enhance patrols in the area to curb criminal activities. She also noted that, due to the growing demand for stolen livestock, some residents have been forced to sleep in their cattle enclosures to deter thieves from stealing their animals.
