The joint security forces of the UPDF and Police Anti-Stock-Theft Unit have arrested a total of 16 suspects, including four local leaders, for allegedly engaging in livestock theft in the region.

SCP Elias Kassirabo, the Commander of the Police Anti-Stock Theft Unit Commander (ASTU), said the local leaders were arrested after issuing fake letters of traceability to traders for stolen animals.

“Three LCI chiefs are from Kotido district, and one LCI chairperson is from Amudat district. They are currently in custody and helping security with the investigation. They issued forged documents to cattle traders to sell stolen animals,” said SCP Kassirabo.

“In the one-month review, 2093 vehicles have been verified exiting Karamoja, and four livestock were stolen, recovered, and given to their owners,” Elias added.

Maj. Gen. Don Nabasa, the third division commander, said local leaders, together with traders, forge movement permits and other documents.

“For example, a local leader issues a permit indicating 20 cows, but when they reach the markets, they buy five and keep topping up on the way, which is an indicator that they are working with the thieves,” Nabasa said.

This comes after security forces passed new guidelines concerning livestock trade in Karamoja, which were aimed at reducing commercialized raids in the region.

The guidelines were passed last month, and traders were fully briefed about their implementation.

Under this arrangement, two exit routes for verification were set up in Moroto and Karenga districts. Security said the suspects will be arraigned in court to answer the charges.