Katakwi-There is a reported increase of cattle thefts by suspected Karamojongs in Palam sub county Katakwi district because of the renewed suspected Karimojong raids.
Statistics from the Palam security team show that 20 cattle have been stolen within the last three weeks compared to 10 in the last three month. However, Katakwi district from the onset of this year continues recording cattle thefts.
The LC one Palam also chairman for LC ones in Palam sub county ,John Imaikorit, confirmed that cattle thieves are taking advantage of stealing due to Iteso who have accepted engaging or hiring Karamojong to look after their herds, hence Karimojongs spy.
He also notes that while Karimojong rustlers used to target mainly cattle, the recent thefts were accompanied with bow and arrow shootings.
Residents including Peter Okolongore , 80, an elder in Palam pleaded for Security beef in Palam sub county , Their pleas have been awakened by the renewed cattle thefts in the sub county of Palam , Ngariam , Okore and Okulonyo.
Okolongore says the insecurity is worrying, he says this week over 10 cattle belonging to Steven Omacar and Adanga were stolen in four parishes of Arusiakan , Palam ,Oramon and Olilim .
Karamojong being known for keeping herds have their pride in livestock keeping, a thing many people suspect influencing cattle raids.
The Government through Uganda Peoples’ Defense Force- UPDF extended recruitment of Local Defense Unit- LDUs to Katakwi in 2016 to help curb cattle thefts by Karimojong rustlers.
However much as the intervention has helped to a bigger extent, the thieves are developing crafty methods including alliance with some wrong elements in the district to steal animals.
Also the government has put another intervention to recruit 12 guards per every parish in regions Karamojong are causing insecurity as measures to curb the vice.
