Makerere University student arrested for monkey trafficking

A total of 31 monkeys and seven vipers from Gabon were handed over to Uganda Wildlife Authority (UWA) officers for the living to be released into their natural habitats and the deceased to be disposed of.

The wildlife was intercepted, packed in 15 boxes, in a super personalized white and green vehicle registered UBA 617A, on June 9 around 9:45 p.m. at the Kikorongo fisheries checkpoint.

According to SCP police spokesperson Fred Enanga, the animals were transported to the DRC, from where they were exported to Europe and Asia for monetary gain.

“We strongly condemn illegal wildlife movements due to their negative impact on the funding of organized crime gangs, loss of biodiversity, public health concerns and violation of our laws,” said Enanga.

“As police, we reaffirm our commitment to working with our UWA partners, border committees, customs officers, local councils, NGOs and the private sector to combat the illegal wildlife trade, ensure the prosecution of offenders and promote a safer environment for wildlife.”

The police spokesperson noted that the arrest of Ankunda, a suspected trafficker, and his colleague would serve as a deterrent and raise public awareness that poaching and illegal species trade are punishable crimes.

“If convicted, the offense of illegal possession of wildlife carries a maximum penalty of life imprisonment,” he stated.

The police expressed gratitude to the joint law enforcement teams in Rwenzori and Kasese region for their efforts in preventing wildlife trafficking.