The fifth Division Commanders, Maj. Gen. Keith Katungi, last week on Friday handed over ten vehicles that had been impounded for involvement in the illegal charcoal trade.
The handover took place during a meeting with community leaders, truck owners, and transporters at the 103 Infantry Battalion headquarters.
Maj. Gen. Katungi strongly cautioned local leaders, transporters, and truck owners about the risks of defying the presidential executive order banning charcoal trade in Northern Uganda.
He urged them to adopt alternative energy sources such as gas, emphasising its cost-effectiveness.
Maj. Gen. Katungi warned boda boda riders against using alternative routes to smuggle charcoal into Lira City, stressing that anyone caught would face legal consequences.
The Lira City Resident City Commissioner, Mr. Egole Lawrence, reiterated the importance of adhering to the presidential directive.
“I believe we are all aware of the executive orders. Let this be a lesson that one day, these impounded trucks will be auctioned to send a clear message,” he said.
The Regional Police Commander (RPC), Tugiizre Alli, urged truck owners to abandon the charcoal trade entirely.
“Even one bag of charcoal found will lead to the vehicle being impounded, as per the directive,” he warned.
Ms. Aguti Gracious from the National Forestry Authority – East Lango assured attendees that joint operations would continue to ensure vehicles transporting charcoal are intercepted and impounded.
