Poacher jailed 9 years for killing wildlife 

Kasese |The Chief Magistrate Court in Kasese has sentenced a Ugandan man to nearly a decade in prison.

On October 4, 2024, Her Worship Ojok Betty sentenced Mulengya Yowasi to nine years in prison or a UGX 8 million fine for killing protected wildlife species in Kasese district.

The accused pleaded guilty to all charges.

Yowasi was apprehended by the Uganda People’s Defence Forces (UPDF) on June 26, 2024, in lbuga village, Kitswamba sub-county, Kasese district, after a tip-off from community members.

He was discovered in possession of two buffalo horns, four buffalo hooves, three kilograms of buffalo meat, two kilograms of warthog meat, and a spear.

The UPDF handed him over to Uganda Police, who worked with the Uganda Wildlife Authority to resolve the case.

Also read: How Ugandan women are helping men fight wildlife crimes  

The UWA Prosecutor, Ngene Reuben, presented evidence stating that the accused’s actions harmed both Uganda’s conservation efforts and its economy.

Ngene highlighted before the court the critical role of wildlife in Uganda’s tourism sector, which generates significant revenue.

He further submitted that the animals killed by Yowasi are prey for carnivores such as lions and leopards. Depleting their prey forces these predators to attack livestock, increasing human-wildlife conflict and adding to government compensation costs.

The prosecution urged for a strong sentence to deter others. Yowasi, represented by Counsel Kanyonyi Luke, sought leniency, but the court sentenced him to a fine of UGX 8 million or nine years in prison on each count, with the sentences to run concurrently.

Chief Magistrate Ojok Betty emphasized the need to protect Uganda’s wildlife and the ecological balance, making it clear that wildlife crimes would not be tolerated.

UWA happy!

Uganda Wildlife Authority said it applauded the judiciary, UPDF, Police and the communities for supporting wildlife conservation efforts in the country.

The Authority expressed their determination to combat illegal wildlife activities. “We hope that this case serves as a significant step in deterring future offences.

“Through ongoing campaigns and enhanced enforcement efforts, we remain steadfast in our mission to protect endangered species and preserve the country’s rich biodiversity.”