The Uganda Wildlife Authority (UWA) has arrested a suspected ivory trafficker in Nwoya District and recovered 154 kilograms of raw elephant ivory in a major intelligence-led operation targeting wildlife crime networks.
In a press statement issued on February 23, 2026, UWA said the Special Wildlife Crime Unit, working jointly with the Uganda Police Force, apprehended Opio Francis on February 22 while he was allegedly in possession of ten pieces of raw elephant tusks.
Authorities confirmed that the suspect will be arraigned before the Standards, Utilities and Wildlife Court and charged with unlawful possession of protected wildlife specimens, contrary to the Wildlife Act.
UWA Executive Director, Dr. James Musinguzi, said the arrest demonstrates Uganda’s firm stance against wildlife crime and sends a strong message to traffickers operating within and across the country’s borders.
“This seizure sends a clear and firm message that Uganda will not tolerate wildlife crime. Ivory trafficking is a serious offense that threatens our elephant populations, undermines conservation gains, and fuels organized criminal networks operating across borders,” Dr. Musinguzi said.
He emphasized that the operation underscores the effectiveness of intelligence-driven enforcement and inter-agency coordination. According to UWA, northern Uganda has increasingly been exploited by traffickers as a transit route for illegal ivory, but enforcement efforts have been intensified nationwide.
“We remain fully committed to dismantling wildlife trafficking networks wherever they operate,” Dr. Musinguzi added, warning that arrest, prosecution, and stiff penalties await those involved in the illegal trade.
Wildlife crime continues to pose a significant threat to Uganda’s elephant population and biodiversity. Authorities say beyond environmental damage, ivory trafficking also undermines national security, tourism revenues, and community livelihoods.
UWA urged members of the public to report suspicious activities to help safeguard Uganda’s wildlife heritage for present and future generations.
