Kisangula Cattle Thieves Caught Selling Stolen Cow in Shinyalu

A well-coordinated security operation has led to the arrest of two suspected cattle thieves linked to a recent livestock theft in Kisangula Village, North Maragoli Ward, Vihiga County.

The suspects, identified as Boniface Kivisi, popularly known as "Guga," and Henry Ajega, a butcher based in Chamakanga, were apprehended in Shinyalu Sub-county where they had reportedly taken the stolen animals for sale. However, a third suspect, Cedrick Adagala from Itegero, managed to escape during the operation and is currently on the run, with police pursuing him.

The Theft in Kisangula

According to reports, the suspects are accused of stealing four cows from the homes of Mzee Samuel Sogoni and Nathan Eboso in Kisangula Village. The theft, which occurred earlier this week, prompted immediate action from local authorities after residents reported the missing livestock.

The stolen cattle were reportedly moved quickly from the scene, with the suspects attempting to sell them in neighboring Shinyalu Sub-county before owners could alert authorities across the area.

Joint Security Operation

Acting on intelligence, officers from Mudete and Shinyalu launched a joint operation that led to their interception while still in possession of the animals. The coordinated effort between the two stations proved crucial in tracking the suspects across sub-county boundaries.

"The suspects were found with the stolen cattle within Shinyalu, strengthening the case against them. We are committed to ensuring livestock theft is stamped out in Vihiga County."

Mudete OCS Justus Motanya confirmed the arrests, stating that the recovery of the stolen animals provides strong evidence for the prosecution. He also praised the collaboration between different police units in apprehending the suspects.

Court Proceedings

In court proceedings held at the local magistrate's court, Boniface Kivisi alias "Guga" was denied bail due to a pending case and previous failure to adhere to bond conditions. The court ruled that his history of skipping bail made him a flight risk.

His co-accused, Henry Ajega, was granted a bond of KSh 100,000 or an alternative cash bail of KSh 70,000, which he had not raised by the time of reporting, leaving him remanded in custody.

Community Concerns and Manhunt

Residents in the area have linked the suspects to a series of similar livestock theft incidents, raising concerns over recurring insecurity in North Maragoli Ward. Several farmers reported previous incidents where livestock disappeared under similar circumstances, though these cases had remained unsolved until now.

Meanwhile, the search for Cedrick Adagala, the third suspect who escaped during the operation, continues. Police have appealed to the public for information regarding his whereabouts, warning that anyone found harboring the suspect will face prosecution.

Community Praises Security Response

Despite the ongoing concerns, the community has lauded the swift and coordinated efforts by security officers, particularly those led by the Mudete OCS and CPL Yator, in cracking down on the suspected criminal network. Village elders praised the professionalism displayed during the operation and the recovery of the stolen animals.

Local leaders are now calling for increased patrols in the area and better lighting along routes commonly used by livestock thieves. They have also urged residents to report suspicious movements promptly to prevent future incidents.