Otuke County Member of Parliament Paul Omara has called for urgent and coordinated action to curb the growing wave of cattle theft that is troubling communities across Otuke District.
During a consultative meeting held at his village home, Omara hosted top district security officials, including the Resident District Commissioner (RDC), the District Police Commander (DPC), and other heads of security agencies, to devise collective strategies to tackle the crisis.
“I want to thank the RDC, the DPC, and all other security organs for working collaboratively,” Omara said. “It is through teamwork that we will restore order and protect the livelihoods of our people.”
The MP described cattle theft as a persistent and serious threat to the local economy, especially for residents who rely on livestock as a primary source of income and food security.
The gathering served not only as a security briefing but also as a signal of Omara’s growing emphasis on grassroots engagement.
Hosting the meeting at his rural home underscored his intention to stay connected with constituents and listen directly to their concerns.
Security officers shared updates on ongoing efforts, including surveillance and community policing strategies.
Though specific resolutions from the meeting were not publicly disclosed, officials pledged to increase patrols and tighten coordination across sub-counties to stem the thefts.
Residents have for months raised alarms over increased night-time raids by suspected organized cattle thieves, with some communities reporting dozens of stolen animals in recent weeks.
The MP said the outcome of the meeting is expected to translate into more robust local enforcement and community-led vigilance.
He called on residents to remain alert and continue cooperating with law enforcement.
“This is not just about cattle—it’s about protecting the dignity and livelihoods of our people,” Omara added.
His intervention comes at a time when security remains a major concern in rural parts of Northern Uganda, where cross-border rustling and organized theft rings continue to pose challenges despite ongoing police efforts.
With the next phase of action now in motion, Otuke leaders hope the renewed focus will ease fears among residents and bring the cattle theft epidemic under control.