Gulu, Uganda – January 28, 2025
A covert multi-agency operation led by the Uganda Wildlife Crime Unit (UWCU) has resulted in the rescue of a live pangolin, the arrest of a wildlife trafficker, and the seizure of a motorbike used in the illegal trade.
UWCU received intelligence that a ground pangolin was being offered for sale in the Nwoya area, near Murchison Falls National Park. Working alongside Murchison Falls National Park (MFNP) investigators, veterinarians, and the Uganda Conservation Foundation (UCF), an operational plan was put into action. The operation was dubbed Operation Available.
On January 27, officers posing as buyers met with the suspect to negotiate a deal. Initially, the trafficker demanded an exorbitant 100 million UGX ($26,000) for the pangolin, but after tough negotiations, he agreed to a price of 30 million UGX ($7,800). However, the seller was highly suspicious, refusing to hand over the pangolin until the money was transferred in full to his bank account.
Realizing the stalemate, the team devised a strategy. Upon receiving account information, a small test transfer of 20,000 UGX was made to reassure the suspect and this shifted his mindset completely, making him more cooperative.
The trafficker arranged for an officer (buyer) to be picked up on a motorbike and taken to a location to retrieve the pangolin. However, sensing potential danger, the officer insisted the exchange take place in a neutral public location. The suspect agreed and brought the pangolin to a hotel under the impression that the full payment would be processed.
Upon arrival at the hotel, UWCU officers moved in and arrested the suspect, successfully recovering the pangolin. The motorbike used in the illegal operation was also seized as part of the evidence.
The pangolin was transported to Murchison Falls, where it underwent a medical examination by UWA and UCF veterinarians before being safely released back into the wild.
The suspect remains in custody and will face prosecution locally as the case file has been handed over to Murchison investigators.
