The Chief Magistrate’s Court in Kasese has released a suspected poacher, Living Baluku, after he pleaded guilty to illegal entry into Queen Elizabeth National Park and paid a fine of two million Shillings.
Baluku, a 45-year-old resident of Muhokya Sub-county in Kasese District, had been arrested on March 23, 2026, by park rangers during a routine patrol inside the park.
He was found in possession of wildlife meat, leading to charges linked to poaching, an offence authorities say remains a persistent challenge in protected areas.Appearing before the court presided over by Chief Magistrate His Worship George Mufitundinda, Baluku admitted to the charges.
The court considered his remorse and status as a first-time offender before handing down the fine, which he paid, securing his release.His defence lawyer, Counsel Kanyonyi Luke of Kanyonyi and Co. Advocates, welcomed the ruling as fair.But beyond the courtroom, Baluku’s case has left a deeply human story in its wake.
During the period of his disappearance, his family had no information about his whereabouts and feared the worst. Convinced that he had died, relatives began funeral rituals in line with local customs, mourning a man who was, unbeknownst to them, alive and in custody.
It was only later that they learned Baluku was due to appear in court.Conservationists say the case presents ongoing efforts to curb illegal poaching and wildlife crimes in the region, emphasising the importance of law enforcement and community awareness.
It also speaks to broader realities facing communities living near Queen Elizabeth National Park, where poverty and limited livelihood options continue to drive some residents into illegal activities, even as authorities step up efforts to protect wildlife resources. URN