Kamuli, Uganda: The Chief Magistrate’s Court in Kamuli has sentenced a 45-year-old man to five years in prison and ordered him to pay Shs8 million in compensation after convicting him of stealing cattle belonging to a farmer in Butansi Sub-county.
His Worship Paul Owino Abdnoson, the Chief Magistrate, handed down the sentence on Wednesday, August 5, 2026, after finding John Isabirye guilty of stealing livestock belonging to John Mitala, a resident of Bugeywa Parish in Butansi Sub-county, Kamuli District.
Court heard that the stolen animals included three head of cattle, one of which was pregnant at the time of the theft.
While delivering his judgment, Owino said the sentence was intended not only to punish the offender but also to deter others involved in livestock theft, which he described as an increasing threat to livelihoods and the wider economy.
“I have thoroughly evaluated the circumstances surrounding the commission of this offence. Cattle theft has become increasingly prevalent within the community, significantly impacting household incomes. This issue also has broader implications for the national economy, as it adversely affects the standard of living and the quality of earnings for ordinary citizens. I am optimistic that this sentence will serve as an effective deterrent,” Owino ruled.
The magistrate said the prison sentence would also provide an opportunity for the convict to reform while sending a strong message that criminal activities do not pay.
“Every individual has the right to possess property, whether as a private entity or as a member of a community. It is the duty of the State to safeguard the interests of the community. I am confident that this judgment, endorsed by my seal, will bring about a transformation in society,” he added.
The prosecution, led by Charles Akol, told court that on February 19, 2025, Isabirye stole three cattle belonging to Mitala.
Court heard that one of the stolen animals was carrying a calf before it was allegedly slaughtered by the convict.
Following the conviction, Mitala welcomed the judgment, describing it as justice for livestock farmers who have suffered repeated losses due to cattle theft.
“It was indeed a just ruling, considering the number of cattle we’ve lost to these individuals. I fervently hope that all magistrates will rise and combat this vice,” Mitala said.
The conviction comes amid intensified efforts by security agencies across the Busoga Sub-region to combat the rising cases of livestock theft.
Authorities have in recent months held joint meetings involving Resident District Commissioners (RDCs), Uganda Police, District Internal Security Officers (DISOs), the Office of the Director of Public Prosecutions (DPP), judicial officers, Chief Administrative Officers and veterinary officials to strengthen the fight against animal theft.
The coordinated strategy aims to improve investigations, expedite prosecution of suspects and enhance protection of livestock farmers whose livelihoods depend on animal husbandry.
Officials say the latest conviction marks another significant step in ongoing efforts to curb cattle theft and restore public confidence in the justice system.
If you would like your article/opinion to be published on Uganda’s most authoritative news platform, send your submission on: [email protected]. You can also follow DailyExpress on WhatsApp and on Twitter (X) for realtime updates.
