Suspected illegal loggers in Kasyoha-Kitomi forest reserve remanded
Ibanda chief magistrate’s court has charged two residents of Kicuzi sub-county with unauthorized entry into Kasyoha-Kitomi forest reserve, a wildlife protected area.
The suspects Godfrey Nuwagaba, 32, of Kategure village, and Patrick Katureebe, 54, of Karembe all in Kicuzi sub-county have been remanded at Nyabuhikye Prison as they await further hearing of the case against them.
It is alleged that the suspects were found cutting down trees in the forest reserve by the National Forest Authority patrol team on September 27th, following a tip off from a community member.
The suspects had two pit saws, one panga, file, an axe, and a sauce pan in their possession, which were impounded by the enforcement team, according to the charge sheet.
According to prosecution, the suspects were found in Kasyoha-Kitomi government forest reserve without lawful excuse contrary to sections 30(a) and 70 of Uganda Wildlife Authority of 2019.
It further indicates that on questioning, the two admitted to committing the offence. Subsequently, they were taken to the local Police post and later transferred to Ibanda Central Police Station, where they were charged accordingly.
The court, presided over by Winfred Naigaga Kyobiika on November 22, remanded the suspects to prison until December 13 when the case comes up for further hearing.
