news 22 August 2026 Daily Monitor (Uganda)
Mbarara Police Nab Three in Connection with Stolen Livestock
Authorities in Mbarara have apprehended three individuals suspected of orchestrating the theft and illegal slaughter of 39 cows and 10 goats. The stolen meat was reportedly being transported to Kasese and the Democratic Republic of Congo for sale. Source: https://www.monitor.co.ug/uganda/news/national/mbarara-police-arrest-three-over-theft-slaughter-of-39-cows-5567414
Police in Mbarara have taken into custody three suspects believed to be involved in a large-scale livestock theft operation. The individuals are accused of stealing and subsequently slaughtering 39 cows and 10 goats. Preliminary reports indicate the perpetrators intended to transport the butchered meat to both Kasese town and the neighboring Democratic Republic of Congo for illicit sale.
Mbarara District Police Commander (DPC), Superintendent of Police (SP) Keneth Kabwigo, confirmed the arrests. The suspects, identified as Steven Bazara, a 62-year-old Congolese national, Peter Mutesasira, 40, from Nyendo, and John Mary Muhindo, 50, from Kasese, were intercepted while using box-body vehicles. “They claim they sourced these cows from Sanga and were en route to Kasese and Congo. We are still investigating the exact origin of the cattle and their motives, especially given the illegal nature of transporting uninspected meat,” SP Kabwigo stated.
The Mbarara City Veterinary Officer, Dr. Brian Ainomugisha, highlighted the significant public health risks associated with the consumption of uninspected meat. “I have conducted a postmortem examination to verify the situation and am sending samples for laboratory analysis. The suspects have endangered public health. They should face appropriate charges. I urge the public to report such suspicious activities immediately,” Dr. Ainomugisha advised.
Investigations are ongoing, and the suspects are expected to face charges related to livestock theft and the illegal trade of meat. Authorities are working to trace the full extent of the criminal network and ensure public safety. The police have urged anyone with information regarding similar illegal activities to come forward.