Three arrested over python skins and ivory

Jul 11, 2016

They include; Bernard Musinguzi, Peter Bijebere and Charlse Orisigarire who were netted from Kashakye trading center in Kamwenge district.

Police in Kamwenge district together with the Natural Resource Conservation Network (NRCN) have arrested three suspects for allegedly selling pieces of hippo ivory, pangolin scales and two skins of mature pythons.

They include; Bernard Musinguzi, Peter Bijebere and Charlse Orisigarire who were netted from Kashakye trading center in Kamwenge district.

According to Laban Muhindo, the NRCN media assistant, they received a tipoff from the public about a racket engaged in illegal trade of endangered species in Kamwenge.

"After receiving the information, a team from NRCN and Police conducted a raid and arrested the culprits from Kashakye trading centre," Muhindo said.

 Python skin and the ivory atthe police station

He added that the three have been selling parts of endangered species of animals such as hippos, pangolins and python skins.

The suspects, according to Muhindo, were found in possession of  52 pieces of hippo ivory. The team also recovered four Kilograms of Pangolin scales and two long skins of mature pythons.

"The hunt for more suspects is still going on," said Muhindo, adding that wildlife is hunted aggressively in Uganda and in neighbouring countries something that has endangered their population over time.

The suspects are being held at the Central Police Station in Kamwenge District and they are expected to be prosecuted this week on charges of illegal possession of wildlife trophies or products.

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