Eleven people suspected of stealing livestock have been arrested following an operation conducted by the Rwanda National Police in collaboration with other security agencies. Some of the suspects were arrested while in possession of animals suspected to have been stolen.
Residents Raise Concerns Over Livestock Theft
The arrests followed concerns raised by residents in Nyanza and Nyaruguru districts over the theft of different types of livestock.
According to the police, the suspects allegedly took advantage of the night to enter livestock shelters, remove animals and drive them away without the owners’ knowledge.
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Four Cows and 12 Goats Recovered
Police have so far recovered four cows and 12 goats as part of ongoing efforts to combat livestock theft in the Southern Province.
CIP Hassan Kamanzi, the Rwanda National Police spokesperson for the Southern Province, said operations to identify and arrest people suspected of livestock theft are continuing across different districts. He said the operations are aimed at protecting residents’ livestock and safeguarding their economic well-being.
Two Suspects Arrested With Stolen Cows
CIP Kamanzi explained that two men were arrested in Nyanza while in possession of two cows suspected to have been stolen. “In Nyanza, two men were arrested in possession of two cows suspected to have been stolen. They would take the cows to a livestock shelter in the evening, then return to steal others and exchange them, moving them from one place to another in an attempt to evade detection.”
Three More Suspects Arrested in Nyaruguru
Police investigations were further supported by information provided by residents, which helped authorities identify other people allegedly involved in the livestock theft.
CIP Kamanzi said the suspects who were initially arrested provided information that led to the arrest of three additional people in Nyaruguru. “Based on information provided by residents, those people were arrested and they also identified others they had been working with, which led to the immediate arrest of three more suspects. They were arrested in Nyaruguru in possession of two cows.”
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Six Suspects Arrested Over Goat Theft
Police also arrested six other people suspected of stealing small livestock.
The six suspects were reportedly found in possession of approximately 12 goats, which are believed to have been stolen.
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Suspects Handed Over to RIB
All 11 suspects arrested in connection with the livestock theft are currently in the custody of the Rwanda Investigation Bureau (RIB) as investigations continue.
Authorities are expected to establish the circumstances surrounding the thefts and determine the suspects’ involvement before further legal proceedings.
Police Warn Livestock Thieves
Police have warned people who may be considering engaging in livestock theft that security authorities will continue conducting operations to identify and arrest those involved.
Residents have also been urged to remain vigilant and take measures to protect their livestock.
They were further encouraged to promptly report any information concerning suspected livestock theft to the authorities so that action can be taken.
