Acting on intelligence received, the Uganda Wildlife Crime Unit (UWCU) conducted a successful operation in early October 2025 targeting individuals suspected of being in possession of a quantity of elephant ivory in Northern Uganda. Information indicated that the ivory was being stored at remote locations within the Karenga District.
Following detailed operational planning and briefings between the UWCU and Focused Conservation Technical Advisors, an investigation was initiated dubbed Operation Jaculus. Upon arrival in Karenga, UWCU officers coordinated with Uganda Wildlife Authority (UWA) Rangers from the Intelligence Unit at Kidepo Valley National Park and officers from the Uganda Police Force (UPF) in Karenga to support the operation.
UWCU operatives, posing as potential buyers, successfully infiltrated the group suspected of involvement in the illegal trade. This operation led to a meeting with two suspects at the Pire Trading Centre, resulting in their arrest and the recovery of 25 kgs. of elephant ivory. The offenders and seized ivory were transported to Karenga Central Police Station, where the case was formally charged.
A significant suspected offender remains outstanding, and inquiries to trace and arrest this individual continue.
Throughout the deployment, Focused Conservation Technical Advisors provided mentorship and support to the UWCU from the Tactical Support Desk (TSD) in Kampala, reinforcing the operational and safety benefits of maintaining active communication between deployed officers and headquarters.
In addition to the recovery of ivory and the arrest of two suspects, the operation achieved several important outcomes:
- Strengthened collaboration between UWCU, UWA Rangers, and the Uganda Police Force, ensuring effective use of shared intelligence and operational resources.
- Reinforced UWCU’s commitment to pursue those involved in the illegal exploitation of Uganda’s natural resources.
- Enhanced confidence and operational capacity among field officers through continued mentorship and coordination with Focused Conservation advisors.
This operation marks another important step in the ongoing efforts by the UWCU and its partners to combat wildlife trafficking and protect Uganda’s elephants and other endangered species.
