Masindi Court Delivers Stiff Sentences for Wildlife Crimes

In a notable move to deter wildlife crime, the Uganda Wildlife Authority (UWA) has seen success in securing substantial sentences for four offenders in Masindi. The individuals, Owinja Gilbert, Oyergiu Damas, Iutung Godfrey, and Oyirworh Stephen, were apprehended on July 15, 2026, in the Corner Ojara area.

Appearing before the Masindi Chief Magistrate’s Court, the group pleaded guilty to charges of unlawful entry into a protected area, unlawful hunting, and unlawful possession of protected wildlife specimens. The court subsequently handed down a combined sentence of up to eight years imprisonment for each offender, though these sentences will run concurrently.

Beyond imprisonment, the court also imposed a financial penalty of Shs4.17 million, calculated at Shs10,000 per kilogram of the 417 kilograms of suspected wildlife meat recovered. Exhibits seized from the offenders included numerous spears, knives, a panga, and various animal parts such as buffalo tails, a giraffe tail, and horns from different species.

During the trial, the defense sought leniency, highlighting the offenders’ status as first-time offenders with family obligations. However, UWA prosecutor Kato Robinson argued for a deterrent sentence, citing the escalating wildlife crime around Murchison Falls National Park and its detrimental impact on tourism, a vital sector for Uganda’s economy.

Chief Magistrate His Worship Olara Gumutwero acknowledged the first-time offender status but emphasized the necessity of a firm judicial response to combat the rising tide of wildlife offenses. He stated that protecting Uganda’s natural heritage is paramount for national development and tourism.

UWA Executive Director Dr. James Musinguzi reiterated the authority’s commitment to combating wildlife crime through collaboration with law enforcement and the judiciary. He urged those involved in poaching to seek legitimate livelihoods instead of endangering the country’s natural resources. Musinguzi also highlighted UWA’s increasing use of technology and ranger presence to enhance protection efforts in protected areas.

https://nilepost.co.ug/news/370046/uwa-secures-deterrent-sentences-for-wildlife-offenders-in-masindi