Editor
Farmers in the Kigezi sub-region are expressing growing concerns about the rising incidents of domestic animal and bird theft in the area over the past two months.
According to Alex Baine, a resident of Nyanja Parish in Maziba Sub County, thieves have targeted homes at night, making off with over six goats and an unspecified number of chickens during this period. In response to the escalating thefts, some farmers have resorted to keeping their animals inside their homes at night to protect them from thieves.
Cattle businessman Alex Tumwine from Kashambya Sub County in Rukiga district reported that the thieves focus on stealing cows, goats, sheep, pigs, and hens. John Safari, a resident of Nyakabungo Cell in Ikumba Sub County, Rubanda district, has urged security personnel to increase patrols, especially with the approaching festive season, to address the growing problem.
To address the situation, Rubanda’s deputy Resident District Commissioner, Eric Ssewandigi, has announced that security patrols will be intensified during the night to help combat the rising crime rate. Kabale District Police Commander Joseph Bakareke emphasized that the movement of animals at night is prohibited. He also cautioned farmers to carefully vet the individuals they hire to look after their animals, as some may be collaborating with thieves.
Bakareke further recommended that farmers implement safety measures at their homes, such as fencing and having dogs, to deter and prevent theft.
