Ranger shoots 12-Year-old boy dead in Mt. Elgon National Park

Joshua Sukuku, a pupil at Amanang Primary School, was tragically shot in Bukwo District, Sebei Sub-region, Mt. Elgon National Park, allegedly for trespassing and grazing animals. Isaac Kinyazi, a 15-year-old from Cheburbei village in Amanang sub-county, was injured during the incident.

This follows a previous occurrence where crops and property were destroyed by Uganda Wildlife Authority (UWA) rangers.

Simon Yesho, the LCIII Chairperson of Chepkwasta Sub County, reported that the UWA rangers were on routine patrol in the national park when they encountered the victims allegedly collecting firewood. Sukuku was fatally shot, and Kinyazi was wounded and taken to Bukwo Hospital for treatment.

Yesho urged UWA to adhere to the rule of law, emphasizing that the suspects should have been arrested instead of being shot.

The Chief Warden of Mt. Elgon National Park, Samuel Amanya, confirmed the incident and stated that investigations are ongoing. He noted frequent conflicts between the local communities and rangers, with the park’s resources often being a source of contention. He urged residents to respect park regulations and avoid unauthorized entry.