Uganda Wildlife Crime Unit

Multi-agency operation results in seven arrests, major timber seizures, and the collection of forensic evidence to support future prosecutions Illegal timber trafficking is often viewed as a forestry issue, but in reality it is part of a much larger network of organized environmental crime that is increasingly linked to corruption, fraud, wildlife trafficking, and the […]

In April 2026, Focused Conservation launched its Legacy Program pilot officer training initiative in Uganda, bringing together experienced conservation professionals, wildlife crime investigators, and frontline field specialists to deliver a highly practical and immersive approach to wildlife investigation and intelligence development. Held in Queen Elizabeth National Park in Uganda alongside conservation and protected area partners

Focused Conservation’s education and youth engagement initiatives continue to highlight the importance of building meaningful connections with nature, fostering environmental responsibility, and encouraging young people to take positive action on conservation and environmental issues. Founded on the principle that lasting conservation success depends on strong partnerships, community engagement, and effective law enforcement, Focused Conservation works

On March 21, 2026, the Uganda Wildlife Crime Unit (UWCU) carried out a targeted operation in eastern Uganda that resulted in the disruption of a significant ivory trafficking network and the seizure of a substantial quantity of elephant tusks. Acting on credible intelligence, UWCU officers launched Operation Courtesy to investigate a suspected wildlife crime syndicate

On March 14, 2026, a coordinated wildlife trafficking investigation unfolded just outside Kampala, Uganda, an operation that would once again demonstrate the power of partnerships in the fight against illegal wildlife trade. Acting on intelligence received from the Uganda People’s Defence Force (UPDF), the Uganda Wildlife Crime Unit (UWCU) launched Operation Cabin, targeting individuals suspected

On the northern edge of Murchison Falls National Park, where the savannah stretches wide and elephants still move across ancient migratory routes, a quiet but calculated operation was unfolding. On February 21, 2026, the Uganda Wildlife Crime Unit (UWCU), with assistance from the Uganda Police Force and Focused Conservation, launched Operation Blackthorn in Purongo, Nwoya

In January 2026, credible intelligence surfaced indicating that a number of significant protected wildlife products were being offered for sale in the Bweyale area of western Uganda. The individuals believed to be behind the activity were reportedly prominent figures involved in poaching operations and were operating in close proximity to Karuma Game Reserve and Murchison

Kampala, Uganda – December 2025 – The Uganda Wildlife Crime Unit (UWCU) has successfully disrupted multiple elephant ivory trafficking operations across the country, resulting in significant seizures and arrests in recent months. These operations highlight the critical role of intelligence-led enforcement and cross-agency collaboration in combating wildlife crime. Operation Indus, conducted on October 1, 2025,

On Thursday, 27th November 2025, Focused Conservation, in collaboration with the Uganda Wildlife Crime Unit (UWCU) and the International Fund for Animal Welfare (IFAW), participated in a high-level stakeholder meeting at Queen Elizabeth National Park. The event brought together over 40 government officials from across Uganda, including representatives from the Judiciary, Prosecutors, Police, Defence, Prison