Uganda Wildlife Authority (UWA), working together with the Jane Goodall Institute/Kibale Chimpanzee Project (JGI/KCP), on September 18, 2025 successfully darted and relocated an adult male chimpanzee that appeared in a widely shared social media video attacking a boda boda passenger.

The operation was carried out by a team of veterinarians led by Dr. Nathan Mweru of JGI/KCP in collaboration with UWA’s veterinary department. The chimpanzee was safely immobilized, examined, and transported in a translocation crate. It has now been received at the Uganda Wildlife Conservation Education Centre (UWEC) in Entebbe, where it will be monitored and managed in a secure environment.

The move follows heightened public concern after a widely circulated video showed the chimpanzee displaying aggressive behavior towards a motorcycle passenger, raising awareness about the risks posed by displaced or habituated wild animals.

UWA reminds the public that while chimpanzees share close genetic similarities with humans, they remain strong, unpredictable wild animals that can pose risks when they stray into human settlements. Close interaction between people and chimpanzees not only endangers lives but also compromises the survival of these endangered primates.

“This action demonstrates our commitment to keeping both communities and wildlife safe,” said Mr. Bashir Hangi, UWA Communications Manager. “We urge the public to avoid approaching, feeding, or attempting to handle chimpanzees and other wild animals. Any sightings should be reported immediately to UWA for professional response.”

Chimpanzees are a protected species and an important part of Uganda’s biodiversity. UWA remains committed to safeguarding wildlife while ensuring peaceful coexistence between communities and the species that make Uganda one of the world’s top conservation.