UPDF Recovers 127 Cattle in Abim District, Arrests Two Suspected Cattle Rustlers

The Uganda Peoples’ Defence Forces yesterday, 17 March, recovered 127 cattle, four arrows, four axes, and one bow in separate operations against suspected Jie Karamojong cattle raiders in Abim District. During the operations, one warrior was killed, and two suspects were arrested.

 

The recovered livestock, believed to have been stolen from Kapelebyong District, is pending identification of its rightful owners.

This follows two separate operations by troops from the 85th and 87th Battalions.

 

At around 10:45 PM yesterday, troops from the 85 Battalion Headquarters, while on night patrol, exchanged gunfire with Jie Karamojong rustlers in Kathiputhi, Chamkok Sub-county, Abim District. Two suspected cattle rustlers were arrested, while others managed to escape with a firearm.

 

The arrested suspects were identified as Looyo Adugu, 60, and Lobit Lokolong, 9, both residents of Nakwakwa Village, Rengen Parish, Rengen Sub-county, Kotido District. They were found in possession of 117 stolen cattle, four arrows, and one bow.

 

Earlier, troops from the 87 Battalion engaged suspected Jie Karamojong warriors in a cattle raid operation in Okwangluk Village, Kopua Parish, Opopong Sub-county, Abim District.

 

One warrior was killed, and 10 cattle, also suspected to have been stolen from Kapelebyong District, were recovered.

 

The 5 Infantry Division Commander, Major General Keith Katungi, cautioned the Karamojong community against engaging in cattle theft and urged them to pursue alternative livelihood activities.

 

He called on parents and community leaders to prioritise education, emphasising that “education is the key to a better future for the next generation.”