Authorities Detain Bodaboda Rider in Connection with Cattle Theft
Moses Bwambale, a 23-year-old bodaboda rider from Kiryatete in Hoima city, has been apprehended by police for his alleged involvement in a cattle theft syndicate operating in the region. According to Uganda Police Force deputy spokesperson Claire Nabakka, Bwambale was intercepted last week while transporting three Friesian cows worth a total of shillings 6 million in a small saloon car bound for Hoima.
Police Action and Suspect’s Admission
Nabakka disclosed these details during the weekly security briefing at Police Headquarters in Naguru, Kampala, on Monday. Bwambale reportedly confessed to stealing the animals from Lwamata Town Council in Kiboga.
Broader Investigation and Arrests
In the aftermath of Bwambale’s arrest, police have identified additional suspects linked to the cattle theft network in the area. Nabakka indicated that these individuals are believed to be part of a larger criminal organization, some members of which were previously arrested in Kyankwanzi and subsequently released on bail last year.
Current Legal Status and Further Investigations
Emmanuel Birungi, identified as the ringleader of the gang, is presently incarcerated in Mbale city on charges related to aggravated robbery. Police have registered a case of stolen property involving the seized vehicle and three cows, although one of the animals has since died. Investigations remain ongoing as law enforcement officials actively pursue other potential suspects.
Cattle Theft in the Region
Cattle theft remains a prevalent crime in Uganda’s cattle corridor region, posing significant challenges to local security efforts. Earlier this year, security operations led to the arrest of ten individuals suspected of stealing cattle from the state farm in Gomba District. The incident followed the mysterious disappearance of five cows from the farm, prompting intensified investigative efforts by security operatives.
