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Two suspected cattle rustlers shot dead in Kitgum
According to the UPDF, soldiers from Kasiri and Labongo-Otac detachments were conducting a day operation at around 2:00pm when they spotted three riders allegedly fleeing after terrorising residents of Omiya Pachua Sub-county in Agago and taking one bull.
The UPDF says at least 18 suspected cattle rustlers from Karamoja and South Sudan have been killed in operations conducted by the 5th Infantry Division since January 2026. (Courtesy)
By: Christopher Nyeko, Journalist @New Vision
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Two suspected cattle rustlers who allegedly sneaked into Orom Sub-county in Kitgum District were shot dead during a security operation by Soldiers of the Uganda People's Defence Forces.
Capt. Abraham Kasule Sekitto, the Public Information Officer of the UPDF 5th Infantry Division, said the incident occurred in the Labongo-Otac area of Orom Sub-county on Monday, September 28, 2026.
According to the UPDF, soldiers from Kasiri and Labongo-Otac detachments were conducting a day operation at around 2:00pm when they spotted three riders allegedly fleeing after terrorising residents of Omiya Pachua Sub-county in Agago and taking one bull.
The bull was reportedly recovered by soldiers from Omiya Pachua, while the three suspected raiders fled towards the neighbouring Acholi-Karamoja border.
The soldiers opened fire, killing two of the suspects, while a third suspect, who was reportedly armed, escaped.
The bull was reportedly recovered by soldiers from Omiya Pachua, while the three suspected raiders fled towards the neighbouring Acholi-Karamoja border.
The soldiers opened fire, killing two of the suspects, while a third suspect, who was reportedly armed, escaped.
Sekitto said since January this year, at least 18 suspected cattle rustlers from Karamoja and South Sudan have been killed in operations conducted by the 5th Infantry Division.
The army also reported recovering 513 cattle and handing them back to their owners.
Following Monday’s operation, the UPDF 5th Infantry Division commander, Maj. Gen. Keith Katungi, assured residents within the division’s area of responsibility of continued security and protection against cattle rustlers.
The community was advised to keep livestock in protected community kraals and ensure that animals are accompanied by herders when grazing to reduce the risk of thefts.
The army also reported recovering 513 cattle and handing them back to their owners.
Following Monday’s operation, the UPDF 5th Infantry Division commander, Maj. Gen. Keith Katungi, assured residents within the division’s area of responsibility of continued security and protection against cattle rustlers.
The community was advised to keep livestock in protected community kraals and ensure that animals are accompanied by herders when grazing to reduce the risk of thefts.