The Commander of the UPDF 4th Infantry Division, Major General Felix Busizoori, has applauded security forces in the West Nile and Acholi sub-regions for their professionalism, coordination, and transparency in enforcing the Presidential directive to evict illegal nomadic pastoralists, commonly known as the Balaalo.

Speaking during a review meeting of Operation Harmony at the 4th Division headquarters in Gulu, Maj Gen Busizoori, who also chairs the Regional Security Committee, revealed that in just over a month, 19,826 head of cattle had voluntarily exited Northern Uganda through the Karuma Bridge. An additional 5,390 cattle were returned to South Sudan.

He credited the smooth progress of the operation to strong collaboration with cultural institutions, which helped mobilize communities and promote peaceful compliance.

“The cooperation between cultural leaders and security teams has been instrumental in ensuring a smooth and peaceful operation,” Busizoori said.

He also issued a stern warning to illegal nomadic herders particularly those referred to as Umbololo from Cameroon, the Central African Republic, and parts of South Sudan who have entered Uganda through districts like Koboko, Yumbe, Madi Okollo, and Amuru.

Responding to rumours that UPDF officers had killed Balaalo cattle at holding centres, Maj Gen Busizoori dismissed the allegations as false. He clarified that any livestock deaths were due to negligence by the herders themselves.

He urged pastoralists to take advantage of the ongoing grace period and voluntarily move their animals to avoid clashes with communities and authorities.

Maj Gen Busizoori also praised district veterinary officers, media teams, and operational coordinators for providing accurate updates on animal health and helping counter misinformation.

He concluded by calling on the Ministries of Agriculture, Animal Industry and Fisheries, and Transport to support the operation by opening access roads and improving infrastructure in the affected areas.