The Uganda Police Force’s Environmental Protection Police Unit (EPPU), in coordination with the Uganda People’s Defence Forces (UPDF) and the National Forestry Authority (NFA), has intensified joint operations against the illegal exploitation of forest resources in the West Nile Sub-region.
In May 2023, H.E. the President issued Executive Order No. 3 of 2023 on environmental protection, banning the burning, production, transportation, and commercial trade of charcoal in Northern and North Eastern Uganda, including the sub-regions of Karamoja, Teso, Lango, Acholi, and West Nile.
On 25 July 2026, a joint enforcement operation was conducted in Madi Okollo District and surrounding areas targeting individuals involved in the illegal charcoal trade. During the operation, 72 bags of charcoal were impounded and secured as exhibits at Madi Okollo Police Station.
A total of eight (08) suspects were arrested and charged with illegal dealing in forest produce, specifically charcoal, in contravention of the law and the Presidential directive.
The Uganda Police Force strongly warns all individuals and groups involved in the illegal production, transportation, and trade of charcoal, as well as activities that contribute to environmental degradation, that such acts are criminal and will be dealt with firmly in accordance with the law.
Joint security and environmental protection agencies will continue to sustain enforcement operations across the affected regions. All offenders will be arrested, prosecuted, and any exhibits recovered will be impounded.
We urge members of the public to support these efforts by reporting illegal activities related to forest destruction and environmental degradation through the nearest police station or relevant authorities.
