A joint operation by the Special Wildlife Crime Unit and the Uganda Police Force has led to the arrest of a suspected ivory trafficker and the recovery of 154 kilograms of raw elephant ivory in Nwoya District.
The suspect, Opiro Francis, was arrested on February 22, 2026, in an intelligence-led operation while allegedly in possession of ten pieces of raw elephant tusks.
He is expected to be produced before the Standards, Utilities and Wildlife Court to face charges of unlawful possession of protected wildlife specimens, contrary to the Uganda Wildlife Act Cap 315.
Commenting on the operation, Dr. James Musinguzi, Executive Director of the Uganda Wildlife Authority, said the arrest underscores Uganda’s firm stance against wildlife crime.
“This seizure sends a clear and firm message that Uganda will not tolerate wildlife crime. Ivory trafficking is a serious offence that threatens our elephant populations, undermines conservation gains, and fuels organised criminal networks operating across borders,” Dr. Musinguzi said.
He noted that the success of the operation reflects the strength of intelligence-driven enforcement and close coordination between the Uganda Wildlife Authority and security agencies.
“We remain fully committed to dismantling wildlife trafficking networks wherever they operate,” he added.
Dr. Musinguzi warned that enforcement efforts are being intensified nationwide, particularly in northern Uganda, which traffickers have reportedly used as a transit route for illegal ivory.
“Anyone involved in wildlife trafficking should know that arrest, prosecution, and stiff penalties are inevitable,” he cautioned.
Authorities say the arrest highlights the continued threat ivory trafficking poses to elephant populations. Beyond endangering biodiversity, wildlife crime also undermines national security, tourism revenues, and community livelihoods.
The Uganda Wildlife Authority has urged members of the public to report suspicious activities, reaffirming its commitment to protecting Uganda’s wildlife heritage for present and future generations.
