By Emmanuel Olinga
Security authorities in Katakwi District have arrested five men from the sub-counties of Omodoi, Akoboi, and Ngariam in connection with a resurgence of cattle theft in the area.
The suspects; Julius Ogwang and Paul Icumar from Atirir Village in Omodoi Sub-county, Toroma County; Godfrey Amodoi from Aipany Village; Richard Elungat from Odike Village; and Julius Ongura from Dadas Village in Dadas Parish, Akoboi Sub-county, are accused of both stealing cattle and collaborating with criminal gangs.
Maj. Simon Gidudu, Commander of the Wiski Battalion, confirmed the arrests.
He explained that one of the suspects, Julius Ogwang, fled from a kraal but dropped his phone in the process, which was recovered and used as evidence to apprehend him.
Gidudu noted that all suspects will be screened and those found guilty will be prosecuted.
He also announced plans to intensify patrols to combat the cattle theft menace.
Vincent Savior Okwi, the Deputy Resident District Commissioner (RDC) of Katakwi and Chairperson of the District Security Committee, said the arrests followed Ogwang’s apprehension after he was found with a stolen cow, allegedly taken from an unidentified owner.
He was arrested and taken to Magoro barracks for interrogation.
Okwi called on Local Council leaders to remain vigilant and report any cases of cattle theft and suspected collaborators to security authorities.
He emphasized that public cooperation is key in dismantling cattle rustling networks.
Geoffrey Omolo, the Katakwi LCV Chairperson and member of the District Security Committee, echoed the RDC’s call for increased community vigilance.
He urged residents to actively report criminal elements to security agencies.
Meanwhile, Julius Ogwang has denied involvement in any criminal activity, claiming he was wrongly accused.
The other suspects allege their names were only mentioned by Ogwang, whom they described as a repeat offender.
As of yesterday, the five suspects were transferred to Ngariam Army Barracks where they remain in custody pending further investigations and legal proceedings.
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