UPDF operations in Maruzi Ranch to evict Balaalo draw mixed reactions from the community

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The UPDF Soldiers have resumed the operations to evict the Balaalo Herdsmen from Maruzi Ranch in Akokoro and Ibuje Sub-counties, Apac District impounding over 500 heads of cattle however, this has attracted mixed reactions from the community living around this ranch.

The operations carried out within the last two weeks showed a number of long horned cattle from both the community living around the ranch and the herdsmen grazing their cattle in the jungles of Maruzi Ranch impounded and taken to Kiryandongo District.

Alex Okech, the herdsmen from Rwakisaza Village in Tarogali Parish, Ibuje Sub-county is alleging that his cattle were taken together with those of the Balaalo.

“The soldiers came and took all the long horned cattle that were grazing there and from my kraal 34 heads of cattle were taken,” he said.

He alleged that the army took them together with their cows to Kiryandongo District where they are being denied water and food.

“We followed our cattle up to this side of Masindi Port but we are not allowed to go anywhere yet we don’t have food and water here,” he said.

Denis Ambrozolli Onapa, Akokoro Sub-county LC3 chairperson blamed the UPDF soldiers of sidelining the local leaders in their operations calling for the intervention of the area members of parliament.

“The army came and started working without involving us the sub-county leaders to help them identify the cattle that belongs to the Balaalo they then ending up taking cattle that belongs to our local people,” he said.

Meanwhile Apac RDC, Andrew Onyuk, said that this operation is in the implementation of the executive order No3 of 2025 which is above their control.