(KASESE) – Yowasi Mulengya has been sentenced to nine years in prison or a fine of UGX 8 million for the unlawful killing of protected wildlife, following his guilty plea. The ruling was delivered by Kasese Chief Magistrate Betty Ojok on Friday, October 4, 2024.
The Uganda Wildlife Authority (UWA) spokesperson, in a statement released on October 7, 2024, detailed that Mulengya was arrested by the Uganda People’s Defence Forces (UPDF) on June 26, 2024, in Ibuga Village, Kitswamba sub-county, Kasese District. Local residents had tipped off authorities, leading to the arrest. When apprehended, Mulengya was found in possession of two buffalo horns, four buffalo hooves, three kilograms of buffalo meat, two kilograms of warthog meat, and a spear.
After his arrest, Mulengya was handed over to the Uganda Police, which worked closely with UWA to process the case.
UWA prosecutor Reuben Ngene presented compelling evidence, emphasizing the negative impact of Mulengya’s actions on conservation efforts and Uganda’s economy. Ngene explained that wildlife is essential to Uganda’s tourism sector, which generates significant revenue for the country. The buffaloes and warthogs that Mulengya killed are key prey for carnivores like lions and leopards.
Ngene pointed out that the depletion of prey due to illegal hunting can cause predators to turn to livestock for food, increasing human-wildlife conflicts. This also results in higher costs for the government, which must compensate farmers for livestock losses. The prosecution argued for a strong sentence to serve as a deterrent to others who might consider engaging in illegal wildlife activities.
Mulengya, represented by lawyer Luke Kanyonyi, requested leniency from the court. However, the magistrate imposed a sentence of nine years in prison or a fine of UGX 8 million for each count, with the sentences to run concurrently. Chief Magistrate Ojok stressed the importance of protecting Uganda’s wildlife and maintaining ecological balance.
UWA spokesperson Bashir Hangi praised the Judiciary, the UPDF, the Police, and local communities for their contributions to wildlife conservation. He reiterated UWA’s commitment to tackling illegal wildlife activities.
“We hope this case sends a clear message to those engaging in illegal wildlife trade. UWA will continue its efforts to protect endangered species and conserve Uganda’s rich biodiversity through intensified campaigns and enforcement,” Hangi said.
