crime 24 April 2026 Daily Monitor (Uganda)
Busoga East Police Recover 7 Guns Amid 45 Robbery-Related Murders
Authorities in Busoga East have recorded 45 murders from shootings and aggravated robberies over the past year, recovering seven suspected firearms used in these crimes. Cattle theft has emerged as the leading issue, fueled by high meat prices and threatening government poverty alleviation efforts. Source: https://www.monitor.co.ug/uganda/news/national/seven-guns-recovered-as-busoga-grapples-with-45-robbery-murders-5435730
Police in Uganda’s Busoga East region have documented 45 murders tied to shootings and aggravated robberies since February last year, according to Deputy Regional Police Commander SSP Hasunira Ahamedhi.
In response, officers have seized seven firearms believed to have been wielded by perpetrators, with five recovered initially and two more recently. Suspects have been arrested and are facing prosecution.
SSP Ahamedhi highlighted a shift in crime trends, noting that cattle theft now dominates due to soaring meat costs. He cited a recent incident in Namutumba District where suspected thieves from Hoima were intercepted transporting stolen cattle, leading to a fatal police shooting that killed one suspect.
This vehicular cattle rustling poses a major risk to farmers, particularly those under the Parish Development Model investing in livestock to combat poverty. ‘Some individuals are undermining these efforts by stealing people’s livelihoods,’ Ahamedhi stated during a burial ceremony for slain officer Charles Kasisa in Namutumba Town Council.
Police vow to intensify anti-crime measures and encourage residents to report suspicious activities via LC1 chairpersons and Community Liaison Officers.
Source: Daily Monitor (Uganda)