Kampala – The Standards, Utilities and Wildlife Court at Buganda Road has sentenced four illegal loggers to 18 months in imprisonment.
They were arrested by the National Forestry Authority (NFA) law enforcement officers and Environment Police Force in Mabira Central Forest Reserve (CFR) on October 28, 2023.
The sentenced loggers are; Gerald Mugisha, Joseph Ssekungu, Michael Anguzu and one Matovu.
The offences were; illegal cutting of trees, illegal charcoal burning, and carrying out prohibited activities in the central forest reserve contrary to section 14 (1) (d) and (2) of the National Forestry and Tree Planting Act, 2003.
“NFA appeals to all the forest reserves’ adjacent communities, the general public, and the local authorities to remain vigilant and report any suspected illegal activities in CFRs to the nearest NFA offices/Police or call our toll-free: 0800 264036,” urged Juliet K. Mubi the Public Relations Officer NFA
Mabira forest is home to hundreds of species of birds, mammals, and plants.
However, the forest reserve, which originally was 300 km and has more than 300 species of indigenous trees and a flora and fauna treasure, is under threat due to illegal activities like harvesting of forest products.
