Police arrest six for stealing 105 cattle from Mao’s brother Kidega

Police have arrested six suspects over the theft of 105 cattle from Minister Norbert Mao’s brother and former EALA Speaker Dan Kidega’s farm in Amuru, recovering 84 animals as a key suspect remains on the run.

Amuru, Uganda: Police in Amuru District, working jointly with the Uganda People’s Defence Force (UPDF), have arrested six suspects in connection with the theft of 105 head of cattle from the farm of former East African Legislative Assembly Speaker and brother to Minister Norbert Mao, Hon. Dan Kidega.

The theft occurred on February 12, 2026, at Ocibi “A” Village, Bana Parish, Lakang Sub-county, Amuru District.

“The following suspects have been apprehended and are currently detained at Amuru Central Police Station; Kuzara Ezra, a 33-year-old resident of Kamuli Village, Kibanda Sub-county, Rakai District; Talemwa George, aged 22 Resident of Ocipi Village, Lakang Sub-county, Amuru District, Ihanga Nathan, a 27 year old Resident of Mukageta Village, Lyantonde District.”

“Others are Kakuru Fred, aged 33 years Resident of Mutukula Village, Kyotera District, Kairanga Stephen, a Resident of New York Village, Bana Parish, Lakang Sub-county, Amuru District and Agaba Emma, a 30 year old Resident of New York Village, Bana Parish, Lakang Sub-county, Amuru District.”

Preliminary investigations indicate that herdsmen employed at the farm allegedly orchestrated the theft of the animals.

Police say a key suspect identified as Denis, alias “Sebabanda,” who is believed to have coordinated the transportation of the stolen cattle using trucks, remains at large. Security agencies have intensified efforts to trace and apprehend him.

The stolen animals were intercepted on February 13, 2026, during a joint security operation at Ajok Village, Bana Parish, Lakang Sub-county, as the suspects allegedly attempted to cross the River Nile.

So far, 84 head of cattle have been recovered, while efforts are underway to recover the remaining 21 animals.

Police said investigations are ongoing as security agencies work to dismantle the network behind the theft.