(Elegu, Amuru) – Two individuals, 19 year old Moses Akur, a South Sudanese student, and Alana Denis Patrick Oweka, 21, a boda-boda operator, were arrested at the Elegu border on Monday, September 23. The two are accused of illegal possession of a pangolin, a species that is protected by law due to its endangered status.
The arrest occurred after police received a tip off about the suspects’ intention to sell the pangolin. They had reportedly planned to make the sale at Lubii Garden in Elegu Town Council, which is located in Amuru district.
David Onongom Mudong, the police spokesperson for Aswa West, explained that a team of detectives was dispatched to investigate the report. Upon arrival, they found the two individuals with a live pangolin, leading to their immediate arrest. The case was formally registered under the file number CRB:131/2024, and statements were taken from those involved.
The Uganda Wildlife Authority (UWA) has been informed of the case and is expected to take over the investigation, along with the handling of the live pangolin, which is considered crucial evidence in this matter.
This arrest highlights the ongoing efforts by authorities to protect Uganda’s wildlife and crack down on the illegal trade of endangered species. Pangolins, in particular, are highly sought after due to their scales, which are used in traditional medicine and as luxury items, making them a frequent target of wildlife trafficking.
| Suspect | Age | Occupation | Origin |
|---|---|---|---|
| Moses Akur | 19 | Student | South Sudan |
| Alana Denis Patrick Oweka | 21 | Boda-boda operator | South Sudan |
The suspects are currently in police custody, and further investigations are underway to determine the full extent of their involvement in wildlife trafficking. Uganda has strict laws prohibiting the possession and trade of protected species, with severe penalties for those found guilty of violating these regulations.
Authorities are urging the public to remain vigilant and report any suspected cases of wildlife crime to help in the conservation efforts aimed at protecting Uganda’s natural heritage.
