In a powerful example of international cooperation, the Uganda Wildlife Crime Unit (UWCU) led a successful multi-agency operation that resulted in the arrest of two Sudanese traffickers attempting to sell a live pangolin. This groundbreaking operation, dubbed Operation Dunn, was made possible through unprecedented collaboration between Ugandan authorities and their counterparts in South Sudan.
The operation unfolded near Kampala, where covert UWCU operatives met with the traffickers, both Sudanese nationals, who were connected to a known wildlife trafficking network. The suspects were negotiating the sale of a live pangolin, believed to have been poached from Nimule National Park in South Sudan, a region increasingly targeted by traffickers for its rich wildlife.
Thanks to detailed planning and communication between the two countries, an operational strategy was developed, and the traffickers were apprehended. The two suspects were swiftly arrested and handed over to Sudanese authorities, marking a key victory in cross-border wildlife crime enforcement.
After the rescue, the live pangolin was carefully cared for by Ugandan personnel before being successfully released back into the wild. This marks a rare and hopeful outcome, as pangolins are one of the most trafficked mammals in the world, often falling victim to illegal trade for their scales and meat.
Authorities from both Uganda and South Sudan continue to exchange vital information as the investigation into the trafficking network remains active. This cooperation highlights the importance of cross-border partnerships in the fight against wildlife crime, ensuring that traffickers face justice and endangered species like the pangolin can be protected.
Focused Conservation applauds the efforts of both the Uganda Wildlife Crime Unit and their South Sudanese counterparts for their decisive action. Together, these agencies are making strides to combat wildlife trafficking and ensure that those responsible are held accountable.
Further updates on this investigation and other wildlife rescue efforts will be shared as they develop.
