UPDF urged to compensate community for six missing cattle in Agago

19 October 2026, 5:20 pm

By Bonny Mike Okello

The Uganda People’s Defence Forces (UPDF) could be required to compensate the community for six cattle reportedly stolen from a community kraal in Ogwang Kamolo, Lapono Sub-county, Agago District, following allegations that the animals went missing while under the control of soldiers responsible for guarding the kraal.

The incident reportedly occurred on 12 October 2026, when suspected Karamojong raiders allegedly stole seven cattle from the kraal. One animal later returned, leaving six still missing.

Speaking to the public on 92.4 Luo FM in Pader, Ojok Kaite Okidi, the LCIII chairperson of Lira Kato Sub-county and chairperson of LCIII leaders from border sub-counties in Agago District, called on the UPDF to account for the missing animals and compensate the affected community if investigations establish that the cattle were lost while under military custody.

Kaite said UPDF personnel responsible for guarding the kraal had reportedly denied that the cattle were stolen by suspected Karamojong raiders, maintaining instead that the animals had gone missing while under the care of herders.

However, Kaite dismissed that explanation, insisting that the district had agreed on clear arrangements regarding responsibility for cattle kept under UPDF control.

According to him, cattle that go missing while under military custody should be accounted for by the responsible personnel, while the UPDF should not be held responsible for animals that disappear while still under the control of their owners or herders.

He appealed to the Agago Resident District Commissioner, the UPDF 5th Division commander and district leaders to intervene and direct the commanding officer in charge of the Ogwang Kamolo military detachment to ensure that the community is compensated for the six missing cattle if responsibility is established.

Kaite further suggested that, if negligence by the responsible personnel is confirmed, the compensation costs could be recovered from their salaries in accordance with applicable procedures.

Meanwhile, the UPDF 5th Division Public Relations Officer, Captain Ibrahim Sekitto, said he was not yet aware of the matter but promised to investigate and provide further information.

Agago Resident District Commissioner James Nabinson Kidega, popularly known as RDC Nok, said the disappearance of community cattle should not be allowed to go unresolved.

Kidega said he was investigating the allegations and maintained that, if it is established that the animals went missing while under UPDF control, the responsible authorities would have to ensure compensation for the alleged failure to safeguard the livestock.

The RDC also expressed concern over what he described as the lack of a clear report from the UPDF regarding the incident.

He pledged to follow up the matter to establish what happened to the cattle and ensure that the affected community receives an appropriate resolution.

The incident has raised concerns among residents about the protection of community livestock in border areas of Agago District, where cattle theft and suspected cross-border raids threaten livelihoods and community security.

For families who depend on livestock for income, food security and other essential needs, the loss of six cattle is a significant concern.

The community is awaiting the outcome of investigations by the UPDF and district authorities to establish how the animals disappeared, who was responsible for their protection and whether compensation will be paid.

As investigations continue, the key question remains whether the six missing cattle will be recovered or compensation provided if negligence or responsibility is established.