Air force flies helicopters to drive elephants back to park

Aerial photographs show large herds of elephants running while being pursued by a military helicopter

The Uganda People's Defence Air Force (UPDAF) has driven back more than 100 elephants that had been on rampage in Kitgum and Agago districts.

The operation, conducted with the assistance of military helicopters, took place on Monday, and on Tuesday.

Aerial photographs show large herds of elephants running while being pursued by a military helicopter

The UPDF's 5th Division Information Officer, Captain Favorite Rugumayo, declared the operation a success.

"I am hopeful that the threat to human lives and crops is now eliminated," Rugumayo said

For the past few months, residents of Karenga, Kaabong, Abim, Kitgum, Agago, and Otuke districts have been pleading for government intervention.

Elephants that strayed from Kidepo National Park have been wreaking havoc, destroying large gardens and attacking residents.

Besides the reallocation of the stray elephants, residents have also called on the government to provide compensation for those affected by wildlife incursions.

"We have lost lives and our sources of livelihoods. The government need to do more and compensate us," Okello Alfred, a Resident of Agago said

As the elephants return to Kidepo National Park, authorities are expected to implement additional measures to prevent future incidents and to support the communities that have suffered losses due to wildlife intrusions.