By Davis Mugabi

The Uganda Wildlife Authority (UWA) canine unit last night – arrested a Yemen national identified as Al-Maamari Maged Mutahar Ali at Entebbe International Airport.

The suspect was found in possession of 26 pieces of Rhino horns weighing 15 kilograms.

UWA Communications Manager Bashir Hangi confirmed Al-Maamari Maged Mutahar Ali’s arrest, saying the suspect was smoked out at 03:10 hours during luggage check by UWA canine unit that is stationed at the airport.

The Rhino horns were concealed in food items to disguise their identity but Authority’s highly trained dogs were able to detect them.

The suspect has been handed over to aviation police and at the airport for further management of the case.

Hangi urged the public to desist from engaging in wildlife crimes. 

UWA will continue to make Uganda a dangerous place for anyone involved in wildlife trafficking, Hangi said.