By Henry Okello
TORORO
An ex-convict has been apprehended in Tororo district on suspicions of cattle theft in Kisoko Sub-county, following an intensive tracking operation involving a sniffer dog and local intelligence.
The incident unfolded early on November 15, 2025, when a local farmer discovered that two of his cattle had been stolen.
Upon realizing the theft, the victim promptly reported the crime to Kisoko Police Station, where Officer in Charge (OC) initiated a formal case.
The police response team, led by Inspector Mutibwa Moses, quickly dispatched a sniffer dog from the Central Police Station (CPS) in Tororo.
According to Moses Mugwe, spokesperson for the Bukedi South region police, the tracking expedition was rigorous. The sniffer dog expertly navigated through dense bush and crossed a swamp, ultimately leading the team approximately one kilometer to the semi-permanent residence of the suspect, identified as Opella Murunga.
Despite the tracking efforts, the suspect was not at home when police arrived. However, through collaboration with community members, the police learned that Murunga was already selling meat at funeral nearby.
Acting on this information, officers swiftly apprehended him at the funeral gathering, where attendees confirmed his identity and prior history as an ex-convict, recently released on court bail for similar charges.
Statements from the K9 handler and other witnesses have been recorded and added to the police file, strengthening the case against Murunga.
The collaboration between law enforcement and community intelligence underscores a proactive approach to curbing crime in the region.
