Man Sentenced to 9 Years for Killing Wildlife

The Chief Magistrates Court in Kasese has sentenced a man to 9 years in prison or pay a fine of eight million Shillings for killing a protected wildlife species. 

Yowasi Mulengya was arrested by the Uganda People’s Defence Forces-UPDF in June in Ibuga village, Kitswamba Sub County, Kasese district, following a tip-off from a resident.   He was found in possession of two buffalo horns, four buffalo hooves, three kilograms of buffalo meat, two kilograms of warthog and a spear. 

The UWA Prosecutor Ngene Reuben presented evidence before the court led by Magistrate Betty Ojok arguing that the accused’s actions harmed both Uganda's conservation efforts and the economy. 

Ngene further indicated before the court that the animals killed by Yowasi are critical prey for carnivores such as lions and leopards and depleting their prey forces these predators to attack livestock, increasing human-wildlife conflict and adding to government compensation costs. 

Yowasi who pleaded guilty, asked for leniency but the court sentenced him to a fine of 8 million shillings or nine years in Jail. 

Ojok emphasized the need to protect Uganda’s wildlife and the ecological system noting that wildlife crimes will not be tolerated. 

The Uganda Wildlife Authority-UWA-Spokesperson, Bashir Hangi said the authority applauds the judiciary, UPDF, Police and the communities for supporting wildlife conservation efforts.

“Through ongoing campaigns and enhanced enforcement efforts, we remain steadfast in our mission to protect endangered species and preserve the country’s rich biodiversity” Bashir said.