Poachers burn 320 wildlife electric fence poles

Police detectives in Nwoya district's Purongo sub-county are investigating the burning of 320 electric poles meant for a wildlife fence by suspected poachers.

The poles supplied by the Uganda Wildlife Authority (UWA) were intended to create a one-kilometre fence around a section of Murchison Falls National Game Park to prevent stray wildlife including elephants from disrupting nearby communities.

Aswa West Police region spokesperson David Ongom Mudong said the incident happened on January 16, 2025, at about 4:00pm.

According to him, the Police are currently hunting for three suspects identified Lagaga, Opwonya and Nyeko.

"They were identified by people who were in their gardens around the area and linked them to the incident," Ongom said.

Ongom condemned such barbaric acts: "We send an appeal to anyone with relevant information leading to the arrest and prosecution of the perpetrators to confidentially convey it to any nearby Police station or relevant authorities."

Bush burning is traditionally rooted in Acholi during the dry season with the intent of promoting the growth of new pastures after the first rains. 

Some of the communities burn the bush as one of the ways to clear land for agriculture, while others hunt wild animals, including edible rats.

The destructive venture has prompted the Atiak town council leadership to pass a resolution to hold fire-starters accountable.