UPDF ramps up crackdown on cattle rustlers in northern Uganda

Following a series of successful operations in northern Uganda that killed two armed suspects and forced others to flee, the UPDF has issued a stern warning to cattle thieves.

Colonel David Opero, Deputy Commander of the 5 Infantry Division, said the troops from the 75 Battalion launched a pursuit on May 6 in the afternoon.

The launch was after receipt of information about suspected livestock thieves who were believed to have crossed into Uganda from South Sudan.

This operation, which took place in Pii Pee village, according to Col. Opero, resulted in the death of one suspect, Oryema Payas of Obutuce village, Namukora North sub-county, Kitgum district.

In a separate but related operation, UPDF soldiers from the 81 Battalion engaged and neutralized another armed suspect in Lira Kato sub-county, Agago district, as part of their ongoing efforts to combat cattle theft.

Colonel Patrick Opira, Commander of the 505 Brigade, praised the locals for their vigilance and continued cooperation with security forces, which he said has been critical in tracking down and recovering stolen livestock.

Since the beginning of 2025, the UPDF has successfully recovered numerous stolen animals and firearms from cattle raiders, with all recovered livestock returning to their rightful owners.

Capt Edrin Mawanda, the 5 Infantry Division’s Public Information Officer, confirmed the incident, saying, “All recovered cattle were returned to their owners. We’re tracking fleeing accomplices.”