Two arrested over possession of ivory, pangolin scales

By Vaster Kubakurungi 

Two people have been arrested over illegal wildlife trade.

The suspects identified as Suleiman Katende, a guard and Gasama Sikhou, a Senegalese who were found after an operation was carried out by Uganda Wildlife Authority.

Sikhou was found with over 10 horns of bush bucks, 2 horns of heart beast, 8 pieces for ivory weighing 58.30Kg, 24 sacks of pangolin scales weighing 801.70Kg and one shell of a tortoise.

These specimens were found in a store guarded by Katende in Nakirama Village, Kikajo Parish, Nsangi sub county, Wakiso district.

Bashir Hangi, the spokesperson Uganda Wildlife Authority said over 270 cases of trafficking animal body parts have been registered which has directly affected tourism revenues yet wildlife generates over $ 1.6 billion a year.

According to Hangi, the masterminds of this trade use the items to fulfil their witchcraft and cultural needs.

He said the authority is banking on the revised punitive measures provided for in the Wildlife Act of 2019 but also the different enforcement units in the gazetted areas.