Kampala — PARLIAMENT has summoned the internal affairs minister, Kirunda Kivenjinja, to explain why the Anti-Stock Theft Unit (ASTU) officers have not been paid salaries for about two years.

ASTU is a branch of the Uganda Police deployed in the areas bordering Karamoja to counter raids by warriors that have for decades terrorised their neighbours.

The force found in Katakwi is estimated to have 4,410 commanders spread over the 11 districts of Teso, Sebei, Bugisu, Lango and Acholi sub-regions.

It was formed as a Government strategy to address armed violence in the districts neighbouring Karamoja, specifically to track down stolen animals and the Karimojong warriors.

Usuk County MP Charles Oleny (Independent), raised the matter before Parliament presided over by Speaker Edward Ssekandi on Tuesday.

He said for the last 20 months, the force had not received salary and were living on handouts.

"Even uniforms have never been provided since 2007 at the formation of the unit. I call on this House to compel the minister to explain this anomaly," he said as MPs murmured in disbelief.

"The force is demoralised and has become a public threat since they are armed," he said, adding that many people were deserting it.

The Prime Minister, Prof. Apolo Nsibambi, expressed shock at the news.