Uganda Revenue Authority (URA) have impounded dozens of tortoises which were being smuggled out of the country to a yet to be established destination.
A total of 152 tortoises were seized by URA’s enforcement team on transit in Mbale, according Assistant Commissioner Enforcement Mrs. Agnes Nabwiire.
She told press at the URA headquarters in Nakawa today that the reptiles were found wrapped in sacks in transit and that the culprits were found with fake permits.
Commissioner Agnes Nabwire speaking to press
The smugglers who are all in custody are said to have obtained the tortoises from Nakapiripirit District in eastern Uganda.
“We were able to intercept the contraband following a tip from the public,” revealed Mrs Nabwiire.
The animals were handed back to Uganda Wildlife Authority officials who will take them back to their habitat in Karamoja.