Kagadi district environmental officer arrested for unauthorized tree cutting

12 June 2024, 8:07 am

By James Muhumuza

Gerald Byoona remains in custody at Kagadi Central Police Station as investigations continue to identify others involved in the illegal tree cutting at the district compound.

Gerald Byoona, the Environmental Officer for Kagadi District Local Government, was yesterday arrested and detained at Kagadi Central Police Station on allegations of environmental destruction.

The arrest was confirmed by Benjamin Tumusiime, the Deputy Resident Commissioner for Kagadi District, during a briefing with reporters.

According to Tumusiime, Byoona cut down several trees at the Kagadi district headquarters compound without authorization from the district leadership.

It is further alleged that Byoona sold the timber to some district officials following the unauthorized tree cutting.

RDC Tumusiime condemned Byoona’s actions, emphasizing that, as an environmental officer, he should be leading efforts to protect the environment rather than contributing to its destruction.