Residents of Gasabo District, particularly in the sectors of Gikomero, Ndera, Rusororo, and Rutunga, have raised concerns about a group of thieves stealing cows—some being slaughtered while others were recovered before that happened.
Police, in collaboration with other security agencies, local authorities, and residents, took action against this issue starting in October. So far, 11 suspects have been arrested in connection with the theft of six cows.These cows were mainly stolen from Gikomero Sector, specifically in the cells of Minini, Gicaca, and Kibara. The thieves would slaughter the animals and sell the meat in Rwamagana District, Fumbwe Sector, where there’s a cattle market.
According to Kigali City Police Spokesperson CIP Wellars Gahonzire, out of the six stolen cows, four were recovered before being slaughtered through the help of local residents, while two had already been slaughtered. The 11 suspects have been apprehended—some have already been taken to court, and others are still under investigation.CIP Gahonzire further explained that cattle theft usually involves several individuals.
It typically begins with people known as scouts (or cattle spotters), who identify where the cows are kept and then inform the thieves. Once a cow is removed from its pen, it may either be slaughtered immediately or transported to the market for sale. After the slaughter, there are others responsible for carrying and selling the meat.
Another issue identified is that these thieves do not operate in just one sector. They often move around the various sectors mentioned—committing theft in Gikomero and then fleeing to Rutunga. Some even cross into neighboring districts such as Gicumbi, Rwamagana, or Rulindo.
The Rwanda National Police thanked residents who provided information that led to the arrests, urging the public to continue reporting such cases so that all culprits can be caught. It was observed that in many cases, locals know the thieves but withhold information, fearing to create conflicts with neighbors or for other personal reasons.
Residents are also advised to be cautious of individuals who visit their homes pretending to be interested in buying cows, as some may actually be thieves collecting information about where the cows are kept, their owners, and how the barns are built—details they later use to plan thefts.Police also warned those engaging in livestock theft and other criminal activities to stop, as both security agencies and the public are on high alert, and their tactics are well known.Investigations and arrests of other suspected cattle thieves are ongoing.