Chinese Nationals Seek Bail Over Lwera Wetland Drilling Charges

Last updated: July 30, 2024 10:25 am

Seven Chinese nationals who face charges related to illegal drilling in a wetland are scheduled to apply for bail on July 30, 2024. The application will be heard by the Chief Magistrate’s Court of Standards, Utilities, and Wildlife in Makindye, under the supervision of Chief Magistrate Gladys Kamasanyu.

The group had originally planned to apply for bail on July 16, 2024. However, their lawyer, David Karugaba, requested a postponement to arrange the necessary sureties. The defendants are charged with disturbing a wetland, in violation of Sections 55(1)(c) and 6 of the National Environment Act.

Under this Act, anyone convicted of disturbing a wetland could face up to 12 years in prison, a fine of UGX 600 million, or both.

Karugaba has informed the court that he will apply for bail for all seven accused individuals. Magistrate Kamasanyu has set the next hearing for July 30, 2024, to allow Karugaba additional time to secure the sureties and for the prosecution to update the court on the investigation’s progress.

The prosecution team, including Senior State Attorney Judith Nyamwiza from the Office of the Director of Public Prosecutions (ODPP) and legal officer Carol Omoro from the National Environment Management Authority (NEMA), alleges that the accused unlawfully disturbed the Lwera Wetland System. According to the prosecution, the accused, along with others still at large, engaged in drilling activities at Kamuwunga Village, Magezi Kizungu Parish, Lukaya Town Council, Kalungu District, on July 8, 2024. These activities are said to have likely caused adverse effects on the wetland.

The prosecution claims that the drilling was conducted without approval from NEMA. The accused, who are described as tourists, have denied the charges. Nyamwiza has requested more time to provide an update on the inquiry’s status.

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