• By Andrew Ogwang

ADJUMANI, August 25, 2025 – In a decisive move to curb environmental degradation, police in Adjumani District arrested five individuals involved in the illegal harvesting and transportation of forest products.

The operation, conducted in the early hours of Monday, resulted in the seizure of a Fuso truck carrying 90 bags of charcoal.

Acting on credible intelligence received at approximately 04:30 hours, officers from Adjumani Central Police Station, under the leadership of the District Police Commander, intercepted the vehicle, registered as UBP 355S, en route from Ofua to Pakere Town Council. The truck was impounded and is currently stationed at Adjumani CPS, as documented under SD reference number 04/26/08/2025.

The suspects, identified as Muwonge Samuel (42) from Luwero, Mugisha Fred (28), Michael (31) from Isingiro, Kibirige Alex (25) from Luwero, and Asisa Glofa, a known charcoal dealer in Adjumani, were apprehended and are now detained at Adjumani CPS. Authorities allege that the 90 bags of charcoal belong to Asisa Glofa, who is among those in custody.

SP Collins Asea, the Police Public Relations Officer for the North West Nile Region, praised the community’s role in providing critical information that led to the successful operation. “This arrest underscores our commitment to protecting our environment,” Asea stated. “We are grateful for the vigilance of the community, which has been instrumental in this effort.”

The police are continuing their investigations, and further updates are expected as the case progresses. The operation highlights ongoing efforts to combat illegal deforestation and preserve Uganda’s natural resources.