Two Arrested in Ibanda With Suspected Stolen Meat As Cattle Theft Cases Rise

Police in Ibanda District apprehended two individuals, Richard Muhindo and Abdalah Kisitu, during a nighttime operation on Tuesday. They were allegedly transporting meat believed to have been stolen from five cattle in a Toyota Noah vehicle, registration UBQ 836F.

Ibanda Resident District Commissioner Godfrey Mbetegyereize confirmed the arrests and noted that the same suspects and vehicle were intercepted last month for a similar offense. He expressed concern that they were reportedly released by police in Kitagwenda. Mbetegyereize urged residents to collaborate with security forces to combat livestock theft, appealing for timely information to identify and apprehend those involved.

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These are the same individuals and the same vehicle that were arrested last month at the border between Ibanda and Kitagwenda districts while transporting suspected stolen meat. Unfortunately, they were reportedly released by police in Kitagwenda.

The incident occurs as residents report a significant increase in cattle theft, with over 50 cows allegedly stolen in the Ibanda area recently. The arrested suspects are currently detained at Ibanda Central Police Station pending further investigation.

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We appeal to members of the public to cooperate with police by providing timely information that can help identify and arrest those involved in this criminal activity.