Four Arrested in Kalangala for Illegal Logging
Authorities in Kalangala have intensified their fight against Kalangala illegal logging after arresting four suspects involved in cutting timber inside Buswa Forest Reserve. The operation highlights the government’s ongoing efforts to protect natural resources from growing environmental threats.
Operation Targets Timber Destruction
The joint operation was conducted by the Office of the Resident District Commissioner (RDC) Kalangala and the Uganda Police Force. It aimed to dismantle groups responsible for illegal tree cutting and forest destruction within government-owned reserves.
Assistant RDC Mr Kajubi led the team that intercepted the suspects inside the forest. The officers impounded two power saws and recovered 58 pieces of illegally harvested timber from the scene. After their arrest, the suspects were handed over to police for prosecution on charges of illegal logging and environmental degradation.
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Government Condemns Forest Destruction
In a statement, the Office of the President in Kalangala reaffirmed its commitment to enforcing conservation laws and protecting forest reserves from encroachment. Officials expressed concern about the rising rate of deforestation in the district and pledged to act firmly against offenders.
“Deforestation in Kalangala has been increasing at an alarming rate. However, as the Office of the President in Kalangala, we shall not allow the destruction of government forests to continue under our watch,” the statement read.
The RDC’s office confirmed that operations would continue across other forest reserves, with focus on identifying networks that supply illegal timber to local and regional markets.
Environmentalists Raise Alarm
Environmentalists and local community leaders have repeatedly warned about the rapid loss of tree cover across Kalangala District. They attribute the problem to illegal logging, charcoal production, and unregulated land use.
Experts say continued destruction of forest reserves threatens Kalangala’s fragile ecosystem, endangers biodiversity, and exposes the island communities to soil erosion and climate-related risks. Community leaders are calling for stronger penalties, public awareness, and cooperation between law enforcement and residents.
Plans to Curb Deforestation
Authorities have pledged to expand both law enforcement and sensitisation campaigns to stop further forest loss. Officials also plan to increase surveillance in high-risk areas and involve local leaders in monitoring forest reserves.
The government continues to emphasise that environmental protection is not just a policy issue but a shared national duty. As enforcement operations intensify, the Kalangala leadership hopes to reverse deforestation trends and restore ecological balance in the district.
By taking a firm stance on Kalangala illegal logging, authorities aim to preserve natural forests, protect wildlife habitats, and secure sustainable livelihoods for future generations.
