Three Arrested as Police Intercept Truck Carrying Suspected Stolen Meat in Mityana

Police in Mubende District have arrested three suspects after intercepting a truck transporting meat believed to be from stolen cattle in an early morning intelligence-led operation aimed at curbing livestock theft in the region.

According to the Wamala Region Police Spokesperson, Lameck Kigozi, the incident occurred at around 4:30am when a police patrol team under the command of ASP Assimwe Adadi stopped a suspicious box-body truck, registration number UBM 838R, at Wakago Village in Kalonga Sub-county.

“Our patrol team intercepted the truck and ordered the occupants to open it for inspection, but they declined. This raised suspicion, prompting officers to direct the driver to proceed to Mubende Central Police Station,” Kigozi explained.

Upon arrival at the station, the truck was opened, revealing meat from nine slaughtered cows. However, the suspects failed to provide a satisfactory explanation regarding the source of the meat.

“To the shock of the officers, the vehicle was loaded with beef from nine cows, and up to now, the suspects have not accounted for its origin,” Kigozi added.

The arrested individuals have been identified as Jamil Mugisha, a resident of Kyengera in Wakiso District; Andrew Mayambala, the driver from Bulenga in Wakiso; and Kuluthum Nanfuka, a businesswoman from Mityana Town Council.

Police have since detained the trio on charges related to possession of suspected stolen livestock products, as investigations continue to establish the source of the animals and possible links to cattle theft in the area.

Authorities are appealing to members of the public, particularly those who have recently lost livestock in Mubende and neighbouring districts, to report to Mubende Police Station to help identify the animals using skins and other distinguishing features before the meat is disposed of following a court order.

“We urge anyone who has lost animals to come forward and assist in identification before the exhibits are disposed of in accordance with court procedures,” Kigozi said.

The meat has already been examined by the Mubende District Veterinary Officer, and police are awaiting a court directive on its disposal as investigations continue.