Security agencies in Gulu intercepted a truck carrying 500 bags of charcoal along the Kora Abiri-Layibi route and distributed the confiscated consignment to local residents.
The operation was conducted in collaboration with the Regional Police Commander for Aswa West, SSP Fred Ahimbisibwe.
Following the seizure, the 4 Infantry Division Commander, Maj Gen Wilberforce Sserunkuma, ordered that the charcoal be distributed to members of the local community for household energy use.
Maj Gen Sserunkuma said the security forces would strengthen efforts to protect the region’s dwindling forest cover, stressing that environmental conservation requires the active participation of local communities.
He said he was committed to building on the environmental protection gains and enforcing presidential directives aimed at curbing environmental degradation.
Maj Gen Sserunkuma warned commercial charcoal dealers against continued destruction of northern Uganda’s forests, saying such activities would not be tolerated.
Police arrested the truck driver, Nsubuga Edward, 45, of Wabinyonyi Village, Butuntumula Sub-county in Luwero District, and his turn boy, Mumbale Brian, 20, of Namayonjo Village in Wabinyonyi Sub-county, Nakasongola District.
The two suspects remain in police custody as investigations continue into the illegal transportation of the charcoal.
Security agencies are also pursuing the suspected owner of the consignment, identified as Ssebwato.
Security organs and local leaders said they would sustain operations against illegal commercial charcoal trade as part of efforts to protect the environment and enforce the Presidential directives on forest conservation.
