Cuvango: Traditional authorities in Cuvango, located in the southern Huila province, have raised alarm over a "frightening" rise in cattle theft from pastures and corrals. This surge in thefts is heightening insecurity within the villages. Thieves are now employing a new strategy: instead of transporting live cattle, which has become more challenging due to permit requirements on national roads, they are slaughtering the animals in the bush and selling the meat in markets. This method complicates efforts to trace the meat's origin. According to Angola Press News Agency, a meeting took place on Monday between traditional authorities and Cuvango administrator Luis Paulo Ndala, where they voiced their concerns. Despite efforts by the National Police, who have made arrests, the majority of those involved in cattle theft are released within a few months. At least six chieftains at the meeting claimed that known perpetrators often return to their criminal activities after being released, increasing the inclination for villagers to take justice into their own hands. The traditional authorities argue that the justice system's approach is weakening the fight against crime and eroding public trust in institutions by allowing suspects to be released. Administrator Ndala emphasized that cattle theft has escalated into a significant issue that demands decisive responses from authorities. He cautioned that if the problem persists without tangible solutions, the community might resort to vigilante justice, potentially jeopardizing public order and social stability. Ndala underscored that resolving issues directly impacting communities should be the authorities' main priority, and the justice system must address cases of cattle theft. In the southern region, cattle theft is not only common but also a cultural phenomenon that has been on the rise. This increase is partly attributed to traditional inheritance practices, where children who care for cattle are not recognized as legitimate heirs, leading to rebellious acts of theft . In 2025, the municipal police received 113 cattle theft complaints, with six incidents resulting in the deaths of shepherds due to assaults during grazing, where firearms were used. In the same period, 23 thieves were arrested but not prosecuted. Authorities reported that more than 170 animals were stolen, with 92 being recovered and returned to their rightful owners.
