Nebbi, Uganda – May 6, 2025 – Authorities in Nebbi District have intensified their crackdown on illegal meat trade, detaining four individuals for breaching an ongoing animal quarantine aimed at curbing the spread of foot and mouth disease.According to a statement from SP Collins Asea, the West Nile Regional Police Spokesperson, the suspects were arrested during an early morning operation at 7:30 a.m. on May 3, 2025. The coordinated raid targeted Oryang Cell in Forest Ward, Thatha Division, and Arumkeng Cell in Nebbi Hill Ward, Abindu Division—both within Nebbi Municipality.
The suspects, identified as Odakgiu Muzanmil Swaibu, 63, and Owachgiu Desmond, 29, both farmers; Ojur Sam, 38, a butcher; and an unnamed fourth individual, were allegedly involved in the illegal slaughter and sale of meat, in defiance of district-wide animal movement and slaughter restrictions imposed since February 2025.
The arrests were made under Sections 11 and 25 of the Animals and Diseases Act, which governs the handling of livestock during disease outbreaks.Veterinary officials inspected the confiscated meat and deemed it safe for human consumption.
The meat was subsequently donated to local charities, following proper documentation and disposal guidelines.The case has been registered at Nebbi Central Police Station under references SD18/03/05/2025, SD19/03/05/2025, CRB174/2025, and CRB175/2025.
Key evidence, including photographs and veterinary assessments, has been secured.Statements from both suspects and witnesses have been recorded, and a veterinary autopsy report is pending.
The suspects remain in custody as investigations continue.SP Asea emphasized that the enforcement of the quarantine measures remains a top priority to protect public health and livestock in the region. "We are committed to ensuring compliance with the quarantine to contain the spread of foot and mouth disease," he said, promising further updates as the investigation progresses.
The animal quarantine in Nebbi District was introduced earlier this year as a proactive measure following reports of the highly contagious disease among livestock.
