A ranger at Toro-Semliki Wildlife Reserve was on Wednesday killed during a shootout with armed poachers.
The Uganda Wildlife Authority posted this on its Facebook page paying their tribute to the ranger who died a hero, fighting for the preservation of nature.
“It is with grief and sadness that UWA announces the death of our staff Mbaraga Nicholas a ranger based in Toro Semliki Wildlife Reserve,” the UWA post stated.
Nicholas Mbaraga Ahebwa was killed in a fire exchange with armed poachers in the protected area.
The Authority says the unfortunate death happened while Ahebwa was on routine in an extended patrol where they came across armed poachers.
“One poacher also died in the process.”
Ahebwa was born on the 9th August 1983, he joined UWA on 12th July 2004.
Several people commented on the UWA post complaining of how several rangers have been killed by rangers.
“This unfortunate incident should put our thoughts thinking on how can collectively combat this vice. In the various fora that each of you is included please endeavor to include a discussion of how we can reduce poaching and save more UWA lives,” Stephen Masaba commented on the post.
One Harriet Kemigisha said he remembered Ahebwa as a brilliant and had working young man. “I first met you in lake Mburo and you guided my clients, the last time I saw you was in the middle of Semuliki national park patrolling and I was also bird watching .”
KeyMe Akiiki referred to Ahebwa as a true wildlife hero, and suggested that he should be recognized national heros.
