Efforts to combat ASTU livestock theft have taken a significant leap forward as newly trained officers of the Anti-Stock Theft Unit (ASTU) successfully completed their induction course at the Police Training School in Olilim, Katakwi.
The pass-out event, attended by top police officials, featured AIGP Frank Mwesigwa, who represented the Inspector General of Police. He applauded the graduates for their resilience throughout the demanding program, which focused on preparing them to tackle livestock theft in some of Uganda’s most affected regions.
“I commend the officers for completing this rigorous course aimed at fighting livestock theft—a persistent threat to rural livelihoods, especially in Karamoja, Teso, and Sebei,” he said.
ASTU Livestock Theft Training Builds Operational Strength
The training covered vital areas such as livestock recovery tactics, community intelligence gathering, and rapid response deployments. According to Mwesigwa, these practical competencies are key to strengthening Uganda’s frontline policing capacity.
He also praised the instructors for instilling discipline and operational excellence in the trainees, calling their contributions foundational to field effectiveness.
“Our success on the ground begins with the discipline and professionalism these trainers have imparted,” he added.
Police Leadership Affirms ASTU’s National Value
High-level security figures in attendance included AIGP Kafero Moses, Director of Human Resource Development; AIGP Waswa David, Director of Counter Terrorism; and Col. Allan Kyagungu, Deputy Commander of the 3rd Division. Their participation reflected institutional recognition of ASTU’s crucial mission in preserving rural security and promoting stability.
ASTU Deployment to Safeguard Livestock-Based Economies
Cattle theft continues to threaten families and communities in northeastern Uganda. With their specialized training, the new ASTU officers are expected to deploy across Karamoja, Sebei, and Teso to disrupt theft networks, recover stolen animals, and restore public confidence in law enforcement.
Their graduation represents a turning point in Uganda’s broader security strategy aimed at protecting rural livelihoods.
Further Reading
To learn more about Uganda’s rural and national security response, read about Gen Muhoozi’s reforms and role in UPDF modernization. You may also find interest in the evolving criminal investigations such as Nixon Agasiirwe’s involvement in the Joan Kagezi murder case. Additionally, the Uganda Police Force announced the launch of the ASTU induction course to boost the fight against cattle rustling.
