Uganda: Ibanda Leaders Revive Local Security Committees to Curb Rising Animal Theft

Ibanda District authorities have urged the urgent revival of sub-county and town council security committees as part of measures to combat rising theft in the district, particularly livestock theft involving cattle and pigs.

The directive follows reports of increasing criminal activity, especially in rural areas, prompting the district security committee to hold a high-level meeting on Thursday at the district headquarters.

The meeting brought together Officers in Charge of sub-county and town council police stations, Local Council III chairpersons, the District Chairperson, the Resident District Commissioner (RDC), the District Police Commander, and other key officials.

District Chairperson Happy Herbert Mayanja said the district is experiencing a new wave of crime that has concerned residents.

"There is a new wave of crime in the district, especially theft of animals like cattle and pigs. Many locals are complaining and some have started losing trust in their leaders because they feel their property is no longer safe," he said.

Mayanja attributed the surge in crime to inactive security committees at lower local government levels, which have weakened community coordination in addressing criminal activity.

RDC Godfrey Mbetegyereize urged local leaders to immediately revive and strengthen their security committees.

"All Local Council III chairpersons must rejuvenate their security committees and ensure they meet regularly to discuss security issues affecting their areas," he said.

He added that reports from every committee meeting should be submitted to the RDC's office for review and follow-up action.

"After every security committee meeting, reports should be submitted to my office so that we can analyse the situation and guide further action to manage insecurity in the district," Mbetegyereize emphasized.

District leaders expressed optimism that renewed focus on grassroots security coordination will help restore public confidence and reduce the growing cases of theft across Ibanda District.

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