Cattle rustlers arrested in Eastern Province

Gatsibo/Rwamagana–Six men suspected of cattle rustling were yesterday arrested in Gatsibo District.

Wednesday, March 14, 2012

Gatsibo/Rwamagana–Six men suspected of cattle rustling were yesterday arrested in Gatsibo District. According to the police, 13 heads of cattle were recovered with the aid of local residents. The suspects, who are currently being held at the Kiziguro and Kiramuri police stations, are residents of Nyagatare, Gatsibo, Kayonza and Kirehe districts. Dr. Justin Zimurinda, in charge of Animal Quarantine in the Province, told The New Times that the animals were presumed to be destined for neighbouring countries. He said the increase in cattle rustling was influenced by the high regional prices for cattle. "Cattle keepers lead a quiet life, few people know how much cattle rustling is increasing. Prices of cows in the region are sky high; this is why you see people stealing them. Of course it is made easier by the fact that most cattle owners live far away from their cows,” he said. Meanwhile, domestic violence continues to increase in most districts in the province. This was highlighted after a man was murdered by his wife in Fumbwe Sector, Rwamagana District yesterday. Claudine Nyirabahire, 49, with the help of her 18 year old son, is alleged to have used a machete to kill her husband, Jean Bosco Ntaramba, 49. Residents have voiced their fear that the deceased’s family might seek revenge. "I am afraid we may witness more deaths…it is whispered that the clan of the deceased has vowed to seek blood,” said a resident who refused to disclose his name.