Thieves have struck President Yoweri Museveni’s Kisozi farm in Gomba District, Central Uganda, making away with veterinary drugs. The suspects, who included herdsmen working at the president’s farm and two women suspected to be dealers in veterinary supplies, were tracked down and arrested by Ugandan police.
According to the Katonga police region spokesman, Majid A. Karim, the herdsmen had been diverting the veterinary drugs meant for treating livestock and selling them illegally. “It is true we arrested them. They were herdsmen at the President’s farm. Instead of using the drugs to treat animals, they have been selling them out,” Karim told Daily Monitor.
Authorities revealed that the suspects were tracked to Kayeyi village, where they were found allegedly selling the stolen drugs. Investigators further uncovered additional veterinary supplies believed to have been taken from the farm at a shop in Busese village in Ssembabule District. However, the exact value of the stolen drugs has not been disclosed.
Karim emphasized that investigations are still ongoing to bring all those involved in the illegal trade to justice. “We urge the public to remain vigilant and report any suspicious activities related to theft and illegal sale of veterinary drugs,” he stated.
A History of Theft at Museveni’s Farm
This latest incident is not the first time criminals have targeted Museveni’s farm. In April last year, 10 individuals were arrested on allegations of stealing cows from the president’s property. Additionally, another criminal group successfully raided the farm in 2023, making away with livestock.
The escalating thefts have forced the Ugandan leader to take drastic measures to protect his farm. Previously, Museveni ordered the installation of a perimeter fence around the farm and implemented a livestock tagging system to curb cattle rustling. Despite these interventions, thieves have continued to strike, raising concerns about farm security.
Museveni has, in the past, hinted at deploying Local Defence Unit (LDU) personnel in nearby villages to bolster security and protect local farmers from similar thefts. Theft of animals and crops remains a persistent problem in rural Ugandan villages, affecting not only large farms like Museveni’s but also smallholder farmers who rely on livestock for their livelihoods.
As authorities continue their investigations, it remains to be seen whether additional security measures will be introduced to curb the ongoing thefts. In the meantime, police have urged citizens to report any suspicious activities and help dismantle illegal livestock and drug trade networks.
