By Robert Segawa
Joint security teams have intensified operations against the illegal charcoal trade in Northern Uganda, leading to the arrest of eight suspects.
The operation, conducted by the Police Environmental Protection Unit, the Uganda People’s Defence Forces (UPDF), and the National Forestry Authority (NFA), is aimed at cracking down on individuals involved in the destruction of forests.
The enforcement follows Executive Order No. 3, issued by President Yoweri Museveni in May 2024 to combat the illegal charcoal trade. The directive covers Northern Uganda, Karamoja, Teso, Lango, Acholi, and the West Nile sub-regions.
Addressing the media today, Police Spokesperson Kituuma Rusoke said authorities are targeting the entire illegal charcoal supply chain, including those cutting down trees, transporters, traders, and anyone facilitating the business.
He warned that vehicle owners whose trucks are used to transport illegal charcoal will also be held accountable.
“Some people hire out their lorries to transport charcoal and later claim ignorance when the vehicles are impounded. That will not excuse them from responsibility,” Rusoke said.
He added that several lorries and large quantities of charcoal have already been impounded in Madi Okollo District and other affected areas.
Rusoke noted that the operations have been ongoing, although some traders appeared unaware of the intensified enforcement.
He urged members of the public to refrain from engaging in the illegal charcoal trade, emphasizing that the joint security operations will continue across the affected regions.
