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Local leaders of the Kiteny sub-county in Uganda's northern district of Kitgum have decried reported attacks by stray elephants from Kidepo Valley National Park.

The elephants are said to have caused havoc in the neighbouring communities for the past three months, with more than 200 households affected.

Alfred Okema, the chairman of Kiteny sub-county, told Radio Rupiny that the affected areas include Paluba, Ladot-onen, and Kiteny parishes.

He said the elephants have invaded gardens and destroyed food crops such as maize, millet, sorghum, and cassava. Some residents are worried about their safety.

Okema said the Uganda Wildlife Authority (UWA) has so far assessed 48 households for compensation.

Ronald Komakech, a councilor representing Kiteny sub-county, said the locals are angry over what they call slow intervention by UWA to drive the animals back to the park.

Samuel Amanya, the chief warden of Kidepo Valley National Park, regretted the destructive intrusion and said UWA is doing its best to prevent the elephants from reaching human settlements.