In August 2024, the Uganda Wildlife Crime Unit (UWCU) led a successful multi-agency operation, codenamed Operation Teddington, that culminated in the arrest of two wildlife traffickers involved in the illegal ivory trade. The operation unfolded throughout the month, showcasing the dedication and expertise of the UWCU team and their commitment to disrupting wildlife crime networks.
The operation began in early August when intelligence indicated that a group of traffickers was planning to smuggle a significant quantity of ivory from the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) into Uganda. The traffickers were actively seeking buyers, and the UWCU team closely monitored the situation. On or around August 14th, it was confirmed that approximately 200 kilograms of ivory had been successfully moved into Uganda, prompting the UWCU operatives to initiate negotiations with the traffickers.
The traffickers, wary of entering a new market, were cautious and initially agreed to supply only 15 kilograms of ivory. On Saturday, August 17th, a courier was dispatched to deliver the 15 kilograms of ivory to UWCU operatives. The courier was arrested on the spot, though the main negotiators were not present at the time.
The following day, new information surfaced from a separate source indicating that the traffickers were attempting to sell more ivory in Kampala. Their goal was to raise funds to bribe police officials to release their associate, who had been arrested on August 17th. Acting swiftly, the UWCU initiated a second operation. On Monday, August 19th, one of the original negotiators—a female suspect and a prominent pastor was apprehended while supplying an additional 20 kilograms of ivory to UWCU operatives.
The investigation is ongoing as authorities work to track down other members of the syndicate and recover the remaining ivory. Both suspects are currently in custody at Kampala Police Station.
