Uganda Wildlife Authority (UWA), in collaboration with the Uganda Police and Uganda Revenue Authority (URA), last week arrested four Chinese nationals following the recovery of illegal wildlife products and smuggled goods at their residence in Naguru, Kampala.
The suspects were found in possession of 9.4 kilograms of pangolin scales, two skinned pangolin carcasses, 167 cartons of smuggled premium cigarettes, and UGX 27 million in cash.
The operation, which took place on November 21, 2024, was initiated after a credible tip-off about pangolin products being stored at a residence on Plot 19, Ntinda View Crescent.
Wildlife experts estimate that at least 42 tree-climbing pangolins were killed to obtain the scales and carcasses recovered. Pangolins are critically endangered species protected under Ugandan law, and their illegal trade poses a significant threat to conservation efforts.
Further searches conducted on November 22 and 23 revealed the smuggled cigarettes, which are estimated to have evaded taxes worth UGX 162 million.
Intelligence suggests that the residence was being used as a hub for distributing pangolin products and smuggled goods to various establishments within and outside Kampala.
The suspects, identified as Pan Yi (40), Liang Sen (26), Huang Xiaobiao (40), and Dia Yanyu (36), were initially apprehended at Kampala Stocks Supermarket on Luwum Street and later escorted to their residence for further investigations. They are currently in police custody and face charges of illegal possession of protected wildlife species and tax evasion.
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