Seven Chinese Nationals Convicted, Fined Shs280M Over Illegal Sand Mining In Lwera Wetland.

The seven suspects arraigned before the Standards, Utilities and Wildlife Court by the National Environment Management Authority (NEMA, were arrested in connection with illegal sand mining in Lwera Wetland.

The individuals, employed by Double Q Co. Limited, were found on July 8, 2024, to be engaged in unauthorized sand mining activities despite previous orders to cease operations and restore the wetland.

The company violated environmental regulations by failing to secure the necessary permits for these activities, leading to the arrest and prosecution of the employees under the National Environment Act.

The accused persons pleaded guilty to several charges, including Disturbing a Wetland by Drilling, and Conspiracy to Commit an Offense.

The court imposed fines totalling 280 million Uganda Shillings, with the added provision of up to 3 years of imprisonment should the fines remain unpaid. This outcome emphasises NEMA’s commitment to enforcing Environmental laws and the serious consequences of violating them.

 The prosecution team was led by Ms. Judith Nyamwiza, Senior State Attorney, representing the Office of the Director of Public Prosecutions.

It should be noted that Wetland degradation is criminal under section 55 of the National Environment Act Cap 181 and is punishable with a fine not exceeding Shs600million or imprisonment not exceeding 12 years or both.

Last month, the environmental body demolished 214 houses in the ongoing exercise to evict people from the Lubigi catchment area in the areas of Nansana, Wakiso district.