Farmers in various sectors of Musanze District are expressing growing concern over a new wave of livestock theft, where thieves no longer steal animals to sell them alive but instead slaughter them inside homes and sell the meat secretly to butchers or eateries during the early morning hours.
Residents say this new tactic has left them fearful, as it is difficult to catch the culprits—many of whom operate at night using clever methods to hide evidence.
One resident, Mukantabana Claudine (not her real name) from Nyange Sector, shared her distressing experience: “A few days ago, our cow was stolen, and we later learned that the thief slaughtered it in his house. When he heard that people were starting to suspect him, he hid the meat in his backyard kitchen garden. It was terrifying because the person who did this lived so close to us.”
Another resident, Ndayambaje Jean (also a pseudonym) from Muhoza Sector, reported a similar case. “My goat was stolen at night and later found slaughtered in a neighbor’s compound,” he said. “It’s painful to know someone can do this right next to you. I’ve started sleeping near my livestock shed to protect my animals, including my cows.”
The Mayor of Musanze District, Nsengimana Claudien, confirmed that authorities are aware of the issue and are working closely with security organs to put an end to it. “It’s a serious problem that threatens livestock farming. We are coordinating efforts with security forces to ensure the culprits are caught and prosecuted according to the law,” he said.
He added that the district is engaging restaurant owners, butchers, and meat traders in discussions to trace the sources of meat and prevent illegal sales. “Some thieves have already been caught, and stolen animals have been recovered thanks to community night patrols,” he noted.
According to the Police Spokesperson for the Northern Province, IP Ignace Ngirabakunzi, at least 14 suspects have been arrested so far in connection with these crimes, and investigations are ongoing.
“Yes, in some areas, there’s been a bad trend of livestock theft. Fourteen people have been arrested for stealing animals and slaughtering them in their homes. We urge residents to keep sharing timely information with us—it helps prevent crimes and return stolen property to the rightful owners,” said IP Ngirabakunzi.
Authorities are urging residents to strengthen night patrols, stay vigilant near their animal shelters, and be cautious of strangers seen loitering near livestock areas.
Local leaders and security organs have reassured residents that all possible measures are being taken to restore peace and security for farmers and their animals, ensuring that the situation returns to normal soon.
