NFA arrests 10 suspects for illegal forest activities in Mabira Forest

24 March 2025, 1:12 pm

By Ronald Ssemagonja

The National Forestry Authority (NFA) enforcement team has arrested 10 suspects: Okech James, Mugabo Twalik, Mutabazi John, Lubega Ibrahim, Motabi Hamza, Nsubuga Charles, Keleto Jingo, Sebufu Edrisa, Musigura Nkoge Monday, and Atanasi Moses, who are said to have been involved in illegal forest activities in the Bulengeza area, Namulaba, within the Mabira Central Forest Reserve (CFR). The arrest followed an operation that uncovered illegal logging, timber dealing, and charcoal production.

According to James Mununa, the coordinator of enforcement at NFA, the crackdown has been crucial in curbing illegal activities within the forest. “Our team has made significant strides in stopping forest destruction in Mabira. We are committed to protecting the forest and ensuring that those involved in these illegal acts face justice,” Mununa said. He added that police conducted searches in the homes of key suspects, recovering exhibits such as power saws, timber, fuel, tools, and charcoal.

Assistant Commissioner of Police (ACP) Francis Olugu, the NFA Police Liaison Officer, stated that the suspects are being charged with illegal possession of forest produce and conspiracy to commit felonies under the National Forestry and Tree Planting Act of 2003 and the Penal Code Act of Uganda.

Among the suspects, Mugabo Twalik and Sebufu Edrisa are former convicts who had served sentences for similar crimes before re-engaging in illegal activities within Mabira CFR. Aldon Walukamba, the Communications and Public Relations Manager at NFA, highlighted the arrest of Joseph Ecima, a key coordinator of illegal activities in Mabira, which has led to further arrests. “We are now tracking other accomplices, including businessmen, politicians, and government workers who are funding these operations. They will be brought to justice,” Walukamba said.

Walukamba concluded by stating that the arrested suspects are the foot soldiers for those who finance forest crimes. “They cut trees, transport timber and charcoal, and hide them in strategic houses near the boundaries of Mabira CFR. We found timber, charcoal, burnt oils, and other destructive instruments used in these illegal activities,” he said. It should be noted that NFA remains vigilant in its efforts to protect Uganda’s forests from illegal exploitation after arresting a total of 13 key suspects in one week.