The Uganda Police Force’s contribution towards reducing cattle rustling in Moroto District, Uganda

Abstract

This study examines the contribution of Uganda Police Force in reducing cattle rustling in Moroto District, Karamoja sub-region. Using structured questionnaires and in-depth interviews, data was collected from a total of 76 primary respondents comprising of 56 respondents systematically sampled from Lotisan and Rupa Sub-Counties, Moroto District. The researcher interacted with 65 victims of cattle rustling and or reformed warriors and 20 Key Informants selected in accordance with their knowledge and experience with the issues under investigation. The data from the primary respondents were triangulated with data obtained from six (6) Focus Group Discussions held with women, youth, men, and elders who were also purposively selected. Primary data was incorporated with secondary sources like district reports on cattle rustling and maps of key hot spots. The findings show that Uganda Police Force (UPF) does not work in isolation, but rather collaborates with other security agencies in fighting cattle rustling in Moroto District. Several strategies were being used by UPF to combat cattle rustling in Moroto. Besides collaborating with the Uganda People’s Defense Forces (UPDF) and intelligent agencies, police organizes patrols, establishes kraals manned by its officers and engages in joint cordon and search operations with the UPDF. There is also tracking stolen animals, opening detaches and check-points, organizing community peace meetings, community policing and zoning of animal movement routes for all livestock moving out of Moroto District. The level of satisfaction with Uganda Police Force’s contribution towards reducing cattle rustling in Moroto district showed mixed responses. Although some stakeholders in Moroto District were not satisfied with the way UPF had worked to reduce cattle rustling in this district, seventy six point eight percent (76.8%) of the primary respondents were satisfied with the strategies being used by the UPF towards reducing cattle rustling in Moroto because they believe there is a general reduction in cattle rustling trends in the district. While the UPDF questions the effectiveness of UPF in reducing cattle rustling due to reported cases of extortion and connivance with the warriors to commit or aid rustling, lack of ideological orientation and a wanting police capacity to conduct proper operations is a factor stakeholders need to address. The researcher has recommended several other strategies to be embraced by those in charge of eliminating or reducing cattle rustling in this area.