By Our Reporter
Lira businessman, Okello Lawrence, has been remanded to prison after being arraigned before the Makindye Chief Magistrate's Court on charges of constructing a fuel station in a protected wetland in Gulu City. The joint operation, involving the Anti-Corruption Unit, the National Environment Management Authority (NEMA), the Criminal Investigations Directorate (CID), and the Office of the Director of Public Prosecutions (ODPP), brought the case to court earlier today.
According to investigators, Okello disregarded conditions outlined in the Certificate of Environmental and Social Impact Assessment issued by NEMA and continued construction in Pece swamp between March and December 2024. His actions were in violation of Uganda’s physical planning and building control laws.
The court heard that Okello is a repeat offender, with a history of encroaching on gazetted areas, including wetlands, forest reserves, and other public lands. Further investigations are underway to determine the extent of his involvement in other illegal activities affecting protected areas.
The Chief Magistrate remanded Okello until December 16, 2024, when he is expected to return to court for further proceedings.
Authorities have reiterated their commitment to cracking down on environmental law violations, emphasizing the importance of preserving Uganda’s natural resources. NEMA has called for increased public vigilance and cooperation in reporting similar cases to prevent further destruction of protected areas.
Torch Media Africa
