Pakwach impounds over 500 bags of charcoal

Lira |Police in Pakwach district have impounded two box body trucks carrying more than 500 bags of charcoal. 

These trucks, with registration numbers UBK 915B and UBG 755V, were intercepted during an intelligence-led operation by joint security agencies.

 The operation aimed to reduce illegal charcoal trade in the district and beyond.

Resident District Commissioner (RDC) of Pakwach Eseru Paul, also known as “Small Body Big Engine” for his quick action, stated that authorities now have comprehensive information and evidence on how these charcoal dealers have evaded security checks.

“We even know the landing sites where these fellows load from, including the notorious racket. But we shall not allow these individuals to flout the President’s Executive Order,” Eseru said.

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The arrested dealers will be taken to court, where their fate will be decided, Eseru said, emphasising that similar operations have previously produced results.

Another notorious charcoal dealer was arrested and charged in court in February 2024, after which the confiscated charcoal was auctioned in accordance with court orders.

This crackdown is consistent with the President’s Executive Order No.3, issued in May 2023, which prohibits commercial charcoal trade in Northern Uganda to combat rapid environmental degradation.

“The authorities in Pakwach are committed to enforcing this ban to protect the environment and ensure sustainable practices in the region,” said RDC Eseru.