By Our Reporter
Lira city| June 25, 2026: Police in Lira City West Division are holding three Parish Development Model [PDM] executive members over alleged embezzlement of funds.
North Kyoga Region Police Spokesperson SP Patrick Jimmy Okema said the suspects were arrested on Monday from the office of the Resident City Commissioner for Lira City.
The arrested are Richard Oludi, chairperson; Ruth Nankabirwa, secretary; and Linda Auma Tino, all executives of Blue Corner Ward, Lira City West Division.
ID fraud alleged
“Preliminary findings indicate that some PDM executive members allegedly registered beneficiaries and permitted the use of National Identity Cards belonging to other individuals to fraudulently access PDM funds,” Okema said.
Tino is alleged to have used the National ID of Apio Gloria to obtain shs1m under the programme.
RCC tip-off
Okema said the RCC informed police of numerous complaints from PDM beneficiaries in Blue Corner Ward. The Division Police Commander led a team to the RCC’s office and apprehended the suspects.
Statements have been recorded from complainants including Apio Gloria, Lakana Opio, Molly Akullu, Celinda Kia, Peace Apio, Harriet Acen, Lilly Awor, and others. All suspects have also recorded statements.
Police have secured court orders to access bank statements from Pride Microfinance Bank and DFCU Bank to gather more evidence.
Okema said the case file will be submitted to the Resident Chief State Attorney for legal guidance once investigations are complete.
He noted similar complaints in cattle restocking programmes, where leaders allegedly demand money from beneficiaries.
“The Uganda Police Force strongly warns all leaders involved in government empowerment programmes against engaging in corrupt practices,” Okema said.
He advised the public not to offer bribes but to report officials who demand money for arrest and prosecution.
Police have arrested three PDM executives in Lira City West over alleged fraud. The Blue Corner Ward leaders are accused of using other people’s National IDs to access shs1m. SP Patrick Jimmy Okema says more complaints are being investigated.
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