Security agencies in Gulu have intercepted a truck transporting 500 bags of charcoal along the Kora Abiri-Layibi route as authorities intensify efforts to curb illegal charcoal trade and protect northern Uganda’s forests.

The operation was carried out in collaboration with the Regional Police Commander for Aswa West, SSP Fred Ahimbisibwe.

Following the seizure, the 4 Infantry Division Commander, Maj Gen Wilberforce Sserunkuma, directed that the confiscated charcoal be distributed to members of the local community for household energy use.

Sserunkuma said security agencies would step up measures to safeguard the region’s declining forest cover, emphasizing that protecting the environment requires communities to play an active role.

He also reaffirmed his commitment to strengthening gains made in environmental protection and enforcing presidential directives targeting environmental degradation.

The army commander warned commercial charcoal dealers against continued destruction of forests in northern Uganda, saying the practice would not be tolerated.

Police arrested the truck driver, Nsubuga Edward, 45, a resident of Wabinyonyi Village in Butuntumula Sub-county, Luwero District.

His turn boy, Mumbale Brian, 20, from Namayonjo Village in Wabinyonyi Sub-county, Nakasongola District, was also arrested.

The two suspects remain in police custody as investigations continue into the alleged illegal transportation of the charcoal.

Security agencies are also searching for the suspected owner of the consignment, identified as Ssebwato.

Security officials and local leaders said operations against illegal commercial charcoal activities would continue as part of broader efforts to conserve forests and enforce presidential directives on environmental protection.