Lira, Uganda — The Uganda People's Defence Forces (UPDF) 5th Division Commander, Maj General Keith Katungi, has returned 13 trucks that were previously arrested for transporting illegal charcoal, signaling a new phase in the ongoing operation to curb environmental degradation.
The trucks, impounded over the past six months as part of the presidential executive order on charcoal, were handed back to their owners during a meeting at lira army barracks.However, Gen Katungi issued a stern warning: any owner caught loading charcoal for a second time will have their truck auctioned.
"We are not enemies of the people," said Gen Katungi. "The Kisanja agenda is to lift 31% of Ugandans out of poverty, not to leave them destitute by keeping their trucks. But we must save our environment."
The operation has recorded significant success. According to Gen Katungi, enforcement has reduced charcoal truck movements from alarming numbers to just 13 trucks in six months. While about 20 vehicles were being intercepted monthly at the peak of the operation, only 13 have been arrested with charcoal in the last five months—proof, he said, that the methods are working.
He also revealed plans to install tracking devices on vehicles to monitor their movements, ensuring that trucks are not diverted to load charcoal when heading to market.
The commander noted that a residue program is already on the ground, and Uganda's environment has improved by 90% since the operation intensified. He cited the destruction of Zoka Forest, where individuals had cut down trees within three months while falsely claiming the charcoal came from the Democratic Republic of Congo.
"This operation is not just a military effort—everyone must contribute," he added.
In a remarkable moment during the meeting, Gen Katungi asked the truck owners directly whether any security personnel had demanded bribes from them. All 13 owners unanimously confirmed that no one had asked for money.
Lawrence Egole, Resident City commissioner for lira city, warned his truck owners against repeating the mistake and supported the commander's proposal to auction repeat offenders' vehicles.
Speaking on behalf of the owners, Jame David Kolo thanked Maj General Katungi and the UPDF for their forgiveness. He made a public pledge on behalf of the group:
"We will not allow our trucks to carry charcoal again. We also promise to advocate for tree planting and to discourage others from burning charcoal. We will be good ambassadors to other Ugandans on the importance of stopping this illegal trade."
Despite the progress, Gen Katungi acknowledged that small-scale smuggling persists, with motorcycle bags of charcoal still entering Lira. However, local leaders have pledged to address the issue, and the commander assured that action will be taken.
"The operation is working, and we are happy with the results. Credit goes to the operation for saving our environment," he concluded.
The return of the trucks marks a shift from strict enforcement to a rehabilitation approach, with the UPDF urging former offenders to become champions of environmental conservation rather than enemies of the state.
