EDITOR
Police in Kisoro District have arrested 28 individuals during an intelligence-led operation targeting illegal mining at Kirwa Wolfram Mines, authorities have confirmed.
According to the Kigezi Regional Police Spokesperson, ASP Elly Maate, the operation was conducted on May 2, 2026, following reports from local leaders about unauthorized mining activities at the government-owned site. The mine, which contains wolfram and tin deposits, is located in Kabaya Village, Busengo Parish, Nyarubuye Sub-county and falls under the Ministry of Energy and Mineral Development, with oversight from the Mineral Police Protection Unit.
Of the 28 suspects arrested, 25 are believed to be Rwandan nationals who allegedly entered Uganda through illegal entry points. Police also recovered approximately 30 kilograms of suspected wolfram during the operation.
Authorities say complaints about illegal mining at the site have been ongoing since the beginning of the year, prompting heightened surveillance and eventual enforcement action.
The suspects have been charged with illegal mining and unlawful entry and stay in Uganda without valid documentation. Police say investigations are still underway, and the suspects will be presented in court upon completion of inquiries.
ASP Maate emphasized that security agencies remain committed to protecting the country’s natural resources and maintaining law and order in mining areas.
