In a significant victory against wildlife trafficking, the Uganda Wildlife Crime Unit (UWCU), supported by Focused Conservation, led a multi-agency operation resulting in the seizure of 35 kilograms of elephant ivory and the arrest of three suspects, including members of the Uganda People’s Defence Forces (UPDF).
Uncovering a Trafficking Network
Dubbed Operation Roebuck, the investigation was initiated following intelligence shared with the UWCU and Focused Conservation about a trafficking network in Northeast Uganda. The traffickers were attempting to sell ivory sourced from an elephant poached in the Agago District within Kidepo National Park in July 2024. The operation revealed a disturbing level of corruption: soldiers, acting on orders from a local UPDF commander, removed tusks from the poached elephant and delivered them to him.
Challenging and Dangerous Negotiations
The investigation presented numerous challenges, including counter-surveillance and potential ambush tactics employed by the traffickers to evade law enforcement. During intense negotiations, the traffickers provided a sample of ivory concealed in a sack of nuts. This pivotal moment allowed the Uganda Police Force to move in and arrest two individuals, as well as providing vital evidence that also led to the arrest of a third suspect. The arrests that were made included members of the Uganda Peoples Defence Forces (UPDF).
Justice for Wildlife Crimes
In November 2024, the implicated commander was arrested and tried in a military court. The UPDF Unit Disciplinary Court sentenced the commander to nearly two years of imprisonment for misconduct under the UPDF Act. Lt. Col. Richard Watmon, commander of the 507 Brigade, emphasized that such acts tarnish the UPDF’s reputation and contradict its professional standards.
The Role of Focused Conservation
Focused Conservation played a critical role in mentoring and assisting the UWCU throughout this complex and high-risk operation. Our team, composed of experienced former law enforcement investigators, provided essential guidance to ensure officer safety and the successful dismantling of this trafficking network.
