Uganda Police Force has reported significant success in curbing criminal activity in the Karamoja sub-region following a series of targeted security operations led by the Anti-Stock Theft Unit (ASTU).

Addressing the media at the Naguru Police Headquarters on Monday, May 12, 2025, Assistant Commissioner of Police (ACP) Kituuma Rusoke said police recovered two firearms and four rounds of ammunition from suspected cattle rustlers, known locally as “warriors.”

“These warriors don’t move with so many rounds of ammunition, so if you hear four, that is typical of them,” Rusoke explained.

According to ACP Rusoke, suspects believed to be involved in cattle rustling were apprehended. The operation led to the recovery of 16 cattle, the identification of five stolen goats, and the retrieval of one cow that had been taken to a local market.

He highlighted the importance of verification exercises in managing livestock theft, a persistent issue in the region.

“We usually do verification exercises and we verified 310 cows and 957 goats,” he said.

The Uganda Police reaffirmed its dedication to maintaining security in the area and urged local communities to cooperate with law enforcement agencies by reporting suspicious activities and participating in verification programs.