The Uganda Wildlife Authority (UWA), in partnership with the Uganda Police Force, has arrested five individuals in Bukedea District for possession of 106 kilograms of elephant ivory, in a significant crackdown on wildlife crime.
The intelligence-led operation took place in Ariet Village, Kachubala, Aligoi Sub-county, where officers recovered six pieces of cut elephant ivory.
The suspects are currently being held at Bukedea Central Police Station and are expected to be arraigned before the Standards, Utilities, and Wildlife Court in Makindye.
They face charges of illegal possession of protected wildlife specimens and conspiracy to commit a felony.
Speaking on the operation, Assistant Commissioner for Law Enforcement and Security and Head of the Wildlife Crime Unit, Margaret Kasumba, hailed the arrests as a major milestone.
“This operation is a major blow to ivory trafficking networks. The recovery of 106 kilograms of ivory underscores both the scale of the challenge and our enhanced capacity to dismantle these criminal syndicates,” she said.
UWA commended the joint enforcement teams for their efforts and reiterated its commitment to protecting Uganda’s wildlife. “Wildlife crime remains a serious threat to biodiversity, and we will continue to strengthen enforcement and intelligence operations to combat illegal activities,” Kasumba added.
This operation marks another step in Uganda’s ongoing fight against illegal wildlife trade, highlighting the critical role of coordinated enforcement in safeguarding the country’s natural heritage.
