Woman Arrested with 14 Suspected Stolen Goats as Livestock Theft Rises in Kafunjo–Mirama

Residents and local leaders in Kafunjo–Mirama Town Council are raising concern over a surge in livestock theft, following the arrest of a woman found in possession of suspected stolen goats.

Rosemary Atuhaire, a resident of Rwabareba Cell, was discovered on Saturday night with 14 goats believed to have been stolen from neighboring households. The animals were reportedly found locked inside a room at her residence, prompting alarm among community members who had earlier lost livestock under unclear circumstances.

Residents say cases of goat and poultry theft have become increasingly common, with many incidents occurring during daytime hours. The trend has heightened fear in the area, with locals alleging that some of the suspects involved are women and their children.

Patrick Ndyajunwaoha, a resident of Karama Cell in Mirama Ward, said three of his goats were stolen last month and later traced to a nearby village. He noted that the recovery of the animals has brought some relief, but emphasized that the growing frequency of such thefts remains a major concern for residents.

Shivan Aniembabazi, from Kafunjo Central, explained that after her goats went missing in the afternoon, residents mobilized and conducted a search that led to the discovery of the 14 goats in Rwabareba. She added that some of the animals had been painted in different colors, making identification difficult for their rightful owners.

In Mwerasandu Village, Rwamwiri Parish, residents have also linked the suspect and her 17-year-old son, who is currently on the run, to multiple livestock theft cases in the area. Community members are now calling on authorities to carry out thorough investigations and ensure that all recovered animals are returned to their owners.

Further reports indicate that, in addition to the goats, several hens and ropes were recovered from the suspect’s residence. These items were taken as evidence and reported to Kafunjo Police Station, where the suspect remains in custody.

By the time of filing this report, police had not yet issued an official statement on the matter. However, investigations are ongoing as efforts continue to address the rising cases of livestock theft in the area.