Authorities in Bukedi Sub-region have intensified their efforts to combat a surge in cattle theft.
With Christmas, Boxing Day and New Year celebrations this week and next Wednesday, residents of Bukedi are concerned about the rise in cattle thefts that usually spike during this time of the year.
Over the past few weeks, reports of stolen livestock have flooded local police stations, with many residents in rural areas facing significant losses.
The thieves, often operating in the dead of night, have been targeting small–scale cattle owners, making it difficult for many to prepare for the festive season’s celebrations.
In response to these growing concerns, the police in Bukedi have launched a series of targeted operations to address the rising thefts.
The North Bukedi Regional Police Commander, Moses Mwanga, has, however, assured local communities that measures are in place to enhance patrols and increase surveillance across the region.
This comes days after three suspected cattle thieves were lynched by a mob in Buyerya Village, Lyama Parish, Kakutu Sub-county in Kibuku District at the weekend.
The RPC identified the deceased as Kaleb Nuwamanya, 23, a resident of Bukoba Village in Masindi District; Mr Samuel Mpyangu,38, a resident of Bugolo 1 Village in Budaka, and the third one had not yet been identified.
He said a case of murder by the mob was opened under Vide Kibuku CRB 676/202, and the crime scene was visited by a team of police officers from Kibuku and Bulangira and documented. Statements were also recorded from witnesses.
The bodies of the deceased were recovered and conveyed to Kibuku mortuary and Mbale City Mortuary for postmortem as inquiries continue.