The Uganda Peoples’ Defence Forces (UPDF) has released trucks and over 1,200 sacks of charcoal that were impounded two to three months ago for illegal transportation.
This release follows a presidential directive issued on May 15, 2023, aimed at combating environmental degradation and insecurity in Northern Uganda, specifically targeting the illegal charcoal trade.
While addressing journalists on Tuesday at Lira Main Barracks during the handover, the 5th Division Commander, Maj Gen Keith Katungi, stated that most of the charcoal entering Uganda, over 60%, originates from South Sudan.
He emphasised that the presidential directive is now being strictly enforced in Northern Uganda.
Maj Gen Katungi delivered a clear warning to truck drivers, stating that the law must be respected and that “ignorance of the law” would no longer be tolerated.
“Today we have called most of the women of Lira City to come and collect all this charcoal for free so that it should be a lesson to the operators,” he said.
The General added that on May 15, 2023, President Museveni issued Executive Order No. 3, which bans the cutting of trees for charcoal burning and its sale, to curb environmental degradation and insecurity in the region.
Captain Sekiitto Ibrahim Kasule, the 5th Division Public Relations Officer, confirmed the release of the impounded charcoal and trucks. The event was presided over by the 5th Division Commander, Maj Gen Keith Katungi, alongside other security agencies at the 103 Brigade Lira Military Barracks.
Lira City Resident City Commissioner (RCC) Lawrence Egole, noted that this was the third time impounded charcoal has been distributed to the community.
He commended UPDF officers, led by Maj Gen Katungi, for resisting bribes from charcoal owners.
RCC Egole issued a final warning to truck owners and drivers, stating that any future impoundments will not be released until a court directs otherwise.
He also called on truck owners to install tracking systems to prevent their vehicles from being used for illegal activities, cautioning that “people are abusing freedom” and should use legal channels to address grievances.
Source: tndNews, Uganda
Recent Comments