(Masaka) – Police have launched a manhunt after suspected cattle thieves abandoned a vehicle with a dead cow inside at a checkpoint in Masaka city before fleeing the scene.
The night time incident took place on November 8, 2024, when a Toyota Ipsum with three occupants arrived at a roadblock being managed by a police patrol team. According to police spokesperson Rusoke Kituuma, the occupants of the vehicle fled on foot when police approached.
Upon inspecting the vehicle, officers discovered a dead black cow in the back seat, believed to have been stolen. Kituuma noted that the case follows a trend in which stolen animals are hidden in car compartments to avoid detection. He explained that Toyota Ipsum cars are frequently used in these operations due to their spacious interiors, which can accommodate large animals.
With the festive season approaching, Kituuma warned that instances of cattle theft are likely to increase. “We have seen many cases where animals are transported at night without proper documentation or authorization,” he said, noting that suspects often pretend not to know transport regulations for livestock when apprehended.
Kituuma added that police will be enforcing stricter measures to combat rising cases of animal theft during this period. “Our officers are being instructed to be more vigilant to curb this issue before it escalates.”
Cattle theft has become increasingly common, largely driven by a rising demand for beef across the country. Last year, a significant case of cattle theft occurred when thieves stole ten cows from New Farm, a branch of the Kisozi State Farm located in Gomba district.
Authorities have urged the public to report any suspicious activities related to livestock transportation, particularly at night, as a means to assist in stopping the theft of cattle.
