By The Uganda Peoples’ Defence Forces (UPDF) have intensified their operations against cattle rustling in Northern Uganda, killing two armed suspects in separate security operations this week and recovering stolen livestock.
Col. David Opeero, Deputy Commander of the UPDF 5 Infantry Division, confirmed the successful operations, which took place in Kitgum and Agago districts. The actions were prompted by intelligence from vigilant community members who reported suspicious movement along the Uganda–South Sudan border.
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The first suspect, identified as Oryema Payas of Obutuce Village in Namukora North Sub-County, Kitgum District, was shot dead on Tuesday afternoon in Pii Pee Village during an operation carried out by the UPDF’s 75 Battalion.
In a parallel operation the same day, troops from the 81 Battalion under the 505 Brigade engaged another group of suspected cattle thieves in Lira Kato Sub-County, Agago District, killing one armed rustler and dispersing others who fled the scene.
UPDF officers lauded the increasing cooperation between residents and security forces, which they say has been central to recent successes in tracking down livestock raiders.
“Community cooperation has made a significant impact on our operations,” said Col. Patrick Opira, Commander of the 505 Brigade. “The public is our eyes and ears on the ground, and their vigilance continues to help us recover stolen animals and neutralize criminal elements.”
Cattle rustling, often involving cross-border elements from South Sudan, has remained a major security concern in the northern region, especially in districts like Agago, Kitgum, and Abim. The rustlers are typically armed and pose serious threats to local farming communities and security personnel alike.
Since the beginning of 2025, the UPDF has ramped up operations across known rustling hotspots, recovering dozens of stolen animals and multiple illegal firearms. All recovered livestock, authorities confirmed, has been returned to the rightful owners.
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Col. Opeero issued a firm warning to remaining cattle rustlers and their collaborators: “We are determined to end this menace. The UPDF will continue to pursue all those involved in livestock theft until peace and security are fully restored.”
The army has pledged to sustain its presence in the region and called on the public to continue reporting suspicious activity to help eliminate cattle rustling for good.
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