The Police is Kanungu District are currently holding six suspects in custody for engaging in illegal mining activities contrary to the Mining and Minerals Act.
The Operation was conducted today October 1st 2026, by officials from the Ministry of Energy Mineral Development, supported by the Territorial Police from Kanungu District.
Kigezi Regional Police Spokesman Nelson Tumushime confirmed the arrests and said that the aim of the Operation was to combat illegal mining in Kanungu District following the guidance of the Minister of Energy and Mineral protection Hon Phionah Nyamutoro on the 7th Sept. 2026.
Tumushime told journalists that the operation started along Kibale and Ntugwa rivers in Omukishaha cell, Ntugwa Parish Nyamirama Sub county in Kanungu District.
Tumushime identified the suspects currently detained at Kanungu Police Station ( CPS) as Tumukunde Dismus, Tumwesigye Bright, Ankunda Martin, Nahwera Sayuni, Abaho Bria and Mpurira Amlet.
According to pleriminary investigations indicate that the suspects have been conducting mining without licencea and their activities have been degrading the environment.
The Police have since strongly cautioned all individuals involved in illegal mining to stop the practice, and those interested should follow the law and aquire licenses, and follow the proper mining guidelines.
Tumushime made it categorically clear that the Police Minerals Protection Unit together with other sister security agencies will continue to carry out operations to protect the environment and natural resources.
