A Karimojong cattle rustler was fatally shot on Tuesday morning during an attempted livestock theft in Lodwar Sub-county, Kitgum District.
According to the Uganda People’s Defence Forces (UPDF), the incident occurred at around 1 a.m. when two rustlers raided Karayo Parish in Kitenyi Sub-county and stole cattle. Acting on an intelligence tip, the UPDF’s 77 Battalion set up an ambush in the area.
During the confrontation, one of the suspected thieves was killed, while the other escaped.
“The stolen cattle were recovered, along with bows and arrows believed to belong to the rustlers,” the UPDF stated.
Col. Patrick Opira, commander of the 505 Brigade, urged local communities in Kitgum and Northern Uganda to promptly report suspected cattle thefts. He also encouraged residents to focus on educating and empowering their children with professional skills to improve livelihoods and deter criminal activities.
In a separate operation, the UPDF’s 79 Battalion recovered 26 stolen cows on December 23 in Kiwaro Parish, Lukole Sub-county, Agago District. The cattle had been stolen by Karamojong warriors.
“The UPDF remains committed to protecting Ugandans and their property,” the statement added.
