Kasese Police Intensify Anti-Poaching Efforts, Arrest Two
Kasese, Uganda – Kasese Police have taken into custody two individuals found in possession of hippopotamus meat.
The suspects have been identified as Mumbere Patrick, 24, and Mumbere Robert, 21, who were apprehended after a tip-off from the community.
According to Rwenzori East Region-Kasese Police Spokesperson SP Nelson Tumushime, the public became suspicious of the two individuals in the area and alerted security personnel, who later swung into action and arrested the two individuals.
Upon searching the premises, authorities discovered the physical remains of two hippopotamuses, including two heads and other wild meat stored in a sack.
Nelson confirmed that the suspects are being held at Kasese CPS, with detectives working to bring them before the courts to face charges related to the possession of protected wildlife species.
“The two were handed over to the Police at Kasese Central Police Station, and our detectives are working around the clock to have the two suspects arraigned in courts of law to answer charges that have been preferred against them,” said SP Nelson.
Nelson further cautioned residents against entering national parks without permission, emphasizing that such actions will be dealt with according to Ugandan law.
“We call upon our residents in Kasese to note that entering the National Park is illegal and possessing wildlife of a protected species is against the laws of the land. All residents should enter the park with permission, and if found not following guidelines, you will be dealt with according to the laws of Uganda,” Nelson noted.
Cue in … Nelson on illegal poaching. RR/RJ/ENG.
The Uganda Wildlife Act prohibits the possession of wildlife products, including meat and other animal items, without proper authorization.
