Police in Nakaseke District have arrested nine suspected livestock thieves after intercepting two FUSO trucks transporting more than 50 animals believed to have been stolen during an intelligence-led operation.
The suspects were identified as Vincent Ssebuuma, Brian Lukwago, Vincent Ssentongo, Vincent Ssenyondo, Peter Ssebagala, Benon Tumuhairwe, Jamalu Kyazze, Ismail Wadimba and Sam Mulindwa, who was driving one of the trucks. The suspects were travelling in FUSO trucks, registration numbers UBP 242T and UBN 758D, when they were intercepted along the Kapeeka–Semuto Road.
Police recovered 40 heads of cattle, 12 goats and eight sheep after officers discovered discrepancies between the livestock being transported and the details indicated on the movement permits. According to police, one truck was carrying 23 cattle, four goats and two sheep despite being authorised to transport only 19 cattle.
The second truck was found transporting 17 cattle, eight goats and six sheep, although its permit allowed only 12 cattle. Neither permit authorised the transportation of goats or sheep. Preliminary investigations indicate that both movement permits stated the livestock had been loaded from Ngoma Cattle Market.
Savannah Regional Police spokesperson Sam Twiineamazima said the inconsistencies prompted officers to impound the trucks and arrest the occupants. The suspects and the recovered animals were taken to Nakaseke Central Police Station as investigations continue.
Police have urged livestock traders and transporters to strictly comply with livestock movement regulations, warning that anyone found transporting animals using fraudulent permits will face prosecution.
The latest arrests come amid continued efforts by security agencies to curb livestock theft across the Savannah Region, which covers Luwero, Nakaseke and Nakasongola districts.
In April this year, police in Luwero recovered 68 stolen cattle and arrested three suspects following another intelligence-led operation in which officers posed as potential buyers. Police say livestock theft remains one of the region’s major security challenges, with hundreds of cases reported over the past two years-URN. Give us feedback on this story through our email: kamwokyatimes@gmail.com
