Six arrested over illegal charcoal trade along Lamwo border

19 February 2026, 1:27 pm

By Otim Moses

Security agencies in Lamwo District on Saturday, 15 February 2026, arrested six suspects in connection with illegal charcoal burning and trade along the Lamwo border corridor.

Lamwo Resident District Commissioner, William Komakech, confirmed the arrests, stating that the suspects are currently in police custody pending further investigations. He alleged that the group had indiscriminately cleared trees across approximately two square miles, causing significant environmental degradation.

Komakech warned that security agencies are intensifying operations to dismantle illegal charcoal networks operating in the area. He noted that some suspects attempt to evade arrest whenever enforcement actions are planned, but authorities remain committed to protecting forest resources.

District officials have repeatedly cautioned residents against engaging in unlawful charcoal production, citing its adverse impact on the environment and long-term livelihoods. The suspects are expected to be arraigned in court once investigations are complete.

Meanwhile, Lamwo District Secretary for Production and Natural Resources, Odur Peace, also confirmed the arrests, noting that the suspects are being held at Lamwo Central Police Station.

Odur alleged that although commercial charcoal burning in Lamwo has declined over the past three years, the recently arrested suspects were reportedly brought into the area by a clan leader in Ayuu Lali to engage in the illegal trade.

He further stated that commercial charcoal burning was banned following an executive order issued by President Yoweri Museveni, but some individuals continue to facilitate the destruction of trees for the charcoal business.

Odur warned residents that the Lamwo District Local Government, together with the Forest Department, remains on high alert and will arrest anyone found cutting down trees for commercial charcoal production in the district.