Crackdown in Mabira. Five Arrested for Illegal Charcoal Burning as Two NFA Officers Face Court
A fresh wave of arrests has rocked the Mabira Central Forest Reserve as authorities intensify efforts to clamp down on illegal charcoal burning and restore order in Uganda’s protected forests.
Five suspects identified as Musisi George, Wasswa George, Wandeka Alamanzani, Wasswa Awali, and Wandeka Ali, were apprehended during a joint operation led by the National Forestry Authority (NFA) and local communities.
The suspects were transferred to Kampala where they are facing formal court proceedings for violating forestry regulations.
The NFA confirmed that these arrests are part of a wider national campaign targeting illegal activities within Central Forest Reserves (CFRs). The latest crackdown brings the total number of individuals arrested in 2025 to 52.
However, the operation also exposed alleged corruption within the very system meant to protect Uganda’s forests. Two NFA staff members including Joseph Ecima, Forest Supervisor in Mabira, and Tibenderana Agai, Forest Supervisor in charge of Muhangi CFR are now in court facing charges for allegedly facilitating forest crimes. Investigations into their roles are ongoing.
So far this year, 19 case files have been opened by NFA enforcement teams. Of these, 15 have reached court, two have been sanctioned, and one remains under investigation. The Utilities Court has already convicted three individuals in 2025 in a clear signal that forest crime enforcement is being stepped up.
Speaking on the development, NFA Communications and PR Manager Aldon Walukamba underscored the vital role that local communities play in preserving forest integrity.
“We applaud the vigilance of communities surrounding forest reserves. But these cases also highlight the urgent need for accountability within our own ranks,” Walukamba said. “We urge all Ugandans to support sustainable forestry and report any illegal activities endangering our environment.”
The NFA oversees the management of 506 Central Forest Reserves covering approximately 1.27 million hectares. With mounting pressure on forest resources, enforcement operations like those in Mabira are seen as crucial to protecting Uganda’s natural heritage for future generations.
