In a bold move to curb rampant cattle theft ahead of the 2026 elections, the Uganda Police Force has officially deployed hundreds of Anti-Stock Theft Unit (ASTU) officers to the Eastern and Northern Corridor regions. The deployment follows the successful completion of a rigorous basic induction course by the officers at the Police Training School in Olilim, Katakwi.
Representing the Inspector General of Police (IGP), the Director of Operations, AIGP Frank Mwesigwa, officiated the pass-out ceremony this afternoon. He commended the officers for their resilience and commitment during the intensive training program aimed at combating livestock theft — a long-standing threat to rural livelihoods in the regions of Karamoja, Teso, and Sebei.
“This deployment marks a renewed effort by the Uganda Police Force to restore security and confidence among pastoral communities. Livestock theft has disrupted lives and economies, especially in these vulnerable regions. With this dedicated force now trained and ready, we are hopeful for a significant reduction in cattle rustling,” said AIGP Mwesigwa.
The Anti-Stock Theft Unit (ASTU) was specially trained following a presidential directive. This came after prominent political leaders from Eastern and Northern Uganda raised alarms over the continued theft of cattle by suspected Turkana raiders from neighboring Kenya. In response, President Yoweri Museveni instructed the IGP to deploy ASTU personnel to secure affected areas.
Instructors at the Olilim Training School were praised for their unwavering dedication in preparing the officers for the field. The comprehensive training covered tactical operations, community engagement, and inter-agency coordination — all tailored to the unique dynamics of cattle rustling and cross-border livestock theft.
Several high-ranking officers graced the ceremony, including AIGP Moses Kafero, Director Human Resource and Development; AIGP David Waswa, Director Counter Terrorism; Col Allan Kyagungu, Deputy 3rd Division Commander; ACP Emitu Ezekiel, Commander Kabalye Police Training School; and ACP Barbra Among, Commander Bwebajja Training School, among others.
The deployment comes at a crucial time as the country gears up for the 2026 general elections. Security of livelihoods, especially in rural regions, remains a priority. The Uganda Police Force has reiterated its commitment to ensuring peace, stability, and the protection of citizens’ property.
The ASTU personnel will be stationed across strategic locations in the cattle corridor, focusing on deterrence, rapid response, and intelligence-led operations to neutralize cattle theft networks.
The communities in Karamoja, Teso, and Sebei can now look forward to reinforced security and a restoration of their way of life — one cow at a time.
