UWA apprehends nine over pangolin scales

WILD LIFE | PANGOLINE SCALES

Uganda Wildlife Authority (UWA) has apprehended nine suspects, who are the masterminds of illegal trade in east, west and central Africa.

Eight other culprits were also nabbed with six tonnes of Pangolin scales. Their leader Gakou Fodie, a Mali citizen, had expired travel documents.

The multi-nation operation was led by Uganda Wildlife Authority (UWA), together with the Lusaka Agreement Task Force with support from Interpol and Freeland.

"The suspects will face charges in court in Tanzania for conspiracy and trafficking in the illegal wildlife trade," said UWA official Gesa Simplicious.

"Their final destination must have been Asia, which has a high demand for food and medicine concoctions."