Inter-agency enforcement of Executive Order No. 3 of 2023 (19 May 2023) is underway. It bans charcoal burning and trade in West Nile, Northern Uganda, Karamoja and Teso sub-Region.
In Amuru District, an operation was conducted on 6 October 2026 in Pabbo Town Council, Opara Sub- County and Atiak Town Council.
In Pabbo Town Council, officers impounded a motor vehicle registration number UAX 307D, which was carrying 26 bags of charcoal. The driver, Joseph Ssentambula, and the conductor, Wassa Kiziti, were arrested.
A further 234 bags were impounded in Opara Sub- County and Atiak Town Council, bringing the total recovered in Amuru to 260 bags.
In Pakwach District, a joint security operation teams conducted on 10 October 2026 along the Pakwach–Nebbi road in Alwi Sub- County. Officers impounded 15 bags of charcoal.
The two operations resulted in the recovery of 275 bags of charcoal and the arrest of two suspects.
Warning to dealers and transporters
We remind the public that the executive order remains in force.
Our teams are also targeting roadside charcoal sales, including persons displaying bags of charcoal along highways. We warn those engaged in prohibited charcoal activities to stop.
We further discourage motorists returning to Kampala from carrying charcoal in their vehicles, including even a single bag on a pickup. Members of the public should not assume that carrying a small quantity places them outside the scope of enforcement.
We urge the public to comply with the directive and report suspected illegal charcoal dealing to the nearest police station. Investigations will guide further arrests and prosecution of those found responsible.
