BUSIA, UGANDA — Police in Bukedi South have arrested 11 people in Busia Municipality during an operation targeting butcheries suspected of selling meat from stolen livestock and dealing in uninspected animal products.
The multi-agency operation, conducted on Monday, targeted butcheries in Arubaina, Sofia, Nangwe, Solo B and Busia Main Market.
The operation was led by the Busia Municipality veterinary officer and followed earlier investigations involving sniffer dogs. According to police, the dogs had identified several butcheries suspected of handling meat from stolen animals.
Authorities said some operators reportedly abandoned their premises after noticing the sniffer dogs, prompting security agencies to organise a coordinated, intelligence-led operation.
During Monday’s crackdown, authorities recovered unstamped meat from goats and cattle, as well as turkeys and chickens.
Police also seized weighing scales, stones, pangas and other items believed to be of evidential value.
The 11 suspects were taken to Busia Central Police Station for processing and were charged with stealing cattle.
The operation reportedly involved the Flying Squad as part of efforts to dismantle what authorities suspect is a livestock theft network involving butcher operators in Busia Town.
Authorities said the crackdown is part of wider efforts to curb livestock theft and prevent the illegal trade in animal products in the area.
Police and veterinary authorities are expected to continue monitoring butcheries and livestock markets as investigations into the suspected theft and illegal meat trade continue.
