Summary:
- Maj Gen Katungi presided over the formal handover of ten vehicles impounded for illegal charcoal transport.
LIRA: Major General Keith Katungi, commander of the 5th Division of the Uganda Peoples’ Defence Forces (UPDF), has issued a stern warning to charcoal traders defying the Presidential Executive Order banning charcoal trade in Northern Uganda.
Speaking during a meeting at the 103 Infantry Battalion headquarters, Maj Gen Katungi presided over the formal handover of ten vehicles impounded for illegal charcoal transport.
Addressing community leaders, transporters, and truck owners, he highlighted the risks of defying the directive and urged them to embrace alternative energy sources such as gas, which he described as more cost-effective and sustainable.
He also cautioned boda boda riders against using unauthorized routes to smuggle charcoal into Lira City, warning that violators would face strict legal action.
Lira City Resident City Commissioner Egole Lawrence echoed this warning, emphasizing the seriousness of the issue.
“I believe we are all aware of the executive orders. Let this serve as a lesson one day, these impounded trucks will be auctioned to send a clear message,” he said.
Supporting the enforcement efforts, Regional Police Commander SSP Tugiizre Alli reminded truck owners of the severe consequences of non-compliance.
“Even one bag of charcoal found in a vehicle will lead to its impoundment, as per the directive,” he warned.
Ms. Aguti Gracious from the National Forestry Authority – East Lango assured attendees that joint operations to intercept vehicles violating the ban would continue.
The meeting, attended by senior UPDF officers and local transport stakeholders, underscored the government’s unwavering commitment to protecting Northern Uganda’s environment and enforcing the presidential ban on charcoal trade.
