Police investigate mysterious deaths of 53 cattle in Bushenyi
By Skika Reporter
Police in Bushenyi District are investigating the mysterious death of 53 cattle over an eight-month period, in what authorities describe as suspected cases of criminal trespass and unlawful killing of livestock.
The latest incident occurred on February 16, 2026, at around 11pm in Kyamiko Village, Kajunju Parish, Kyabugimbi Sub-county, when a farmer reportedly found a man inside his kraal under suspicious circumstances.
The suspect, identified as 46-year-old Turyasingura Gordon, is facing allegations of criminal trespass and unlawful killing of livestock.
According to police, Lawrence Turihamwe, 35, reported that he found Turyasingura on his farm carrying a jerrican of hot water and heading towards the cattle enclosure. Upon being noticed, the suspect allegedly fled, leaving behind a mobile phone.
The Greater Bushenyi Region Police spokesperson, Apollo Tayebwa, confirmed that a general enquiry file has been opened following the deaths recorded between June 2025 and February 2026.
“Notably, Turihamwe had previously lost six cows within four months from November 2025 to date and strongly suspects that the individual found on his farm is responsible for the deaths. He subsequently reported the incident to Kyabugimbi Police Station,” SP Tayebwa said.
Several affected farmers allege that the animals were killed after being administered hot water at night by unknown individuals. Police say preliminary investigations show that at least nine farmers in the area have lost cattle under similar circumstances.
Among the affected farmers is Apollo Muhwezi, who reportedly lost three cows between September and November last year; Francio Magezi, who lost two cows in December 2025; and Abias Kiriga, who lost 15 cows between June and November 2025. Others include Honest Abenawe, who lost two cows in December; Lauben Natweta, who lost one cow; and Felix Kamugisha, who lost two cows in December 2025.
Moses Mugume Kabashekye is said to have suffered the biggest loss, reporting the death of 30 cows from 2024 to date.
“In all reported areas, farmers found their animals dead in the morning,” SP Tayebwa said, noting that postmortem examinations are being considered to establish the exact cause of death.
Police say the recovered mobile phone is believed to belong to the suspect and will form part of the evidence in the ongoing investigations.
“Our preliminary findings indicate the recovered phone belongs to the suspect. We strongly condemn such acts and pledge to parade the suspect in court once we have gathered the required evidence,” SP Tayebwa said.
Authorities have appealed to residents of Kyabugimbi and the wider Bushenyi area to volunteer any information that could aid investigations or clarify the methods used in the alleged killings. They have assured the public that information shared will be treated confidentially.
The incidents have sparked tension in the farming community, with residents calling for increased night patrols and tighter security to protect their livestock and livelihoods.
Police say investigations are ongoing and that the suspect will be formally charged once sufficient evidence is assembled.
