Arua NWSC Engineer arrested over theft
He was arrested on January 3, 2024, in Arua and is expected to be arraigned before the Anti-Corruption Court on January 5, 2024, to answer charges against him.
By Moses Alinda
Arua: The Inspectorate of Government has arrested the Arua area water engineer at the National Water and Sewerage Corporation (NWSC), Mr. Ijuka Norman, for abuse and theft of public property, causing a financial loss worth 100 million shillings.
Dr. Patricia Achan Okiria, the Deputy IGG, ordered the arrest of Ijuka, who has been on the run since he committed the said offenses.
The water engineer stole properties, which included 847 water pipes meant for the Odupi water project in Omugo Subcounty in Terego District, and alleged that the works were completed, whereas they were not.
In addition, he stole materials comprising iron bars, concrete blocks, and assorted paints worth 30 million shillings from the site of office block construction meant for the Arua NWSC office.
Mr. Ijuka Norman was arrested on January 3, 2024, in Arua and is expected to be arraigned before the Anti-Corruption Court on January 5, 2024, to answer charges against him.
According to Dr. Patricia Achan Okiria, abuse and theft of public property is an offense of corruption and refers to actions that can have serious consequences for society as a whole, as they undermine public trust, impede public services, and waste taxpayers’ money.
‘’It is crucial for the IG to address and combat abuse and theft of public property in order to ensure the effective functioning of public institutions and the well-being of communities,’’ she said.
Dr. Achan stresses that these crimes have significant consequences for both the government and the general public, adding that they can result in financial losses, disruption of public services, increased taxes, and diminished community resources.
‘’These actions erode the trust of the public in government institutions and can undermine social and economic development,’’ she added.
She added that ‘’In a bid to minimize corruption through abuse and theft of public property, the IG is enhancing comprehensive measures such as strengthening governance, implementing robust legal frameworks, promoting transparency, and engaging citizens to combat this vice effectively.’’
‘’By safeguarding public resources, we can promote the common good and ensure a more accountable and prosperous society,’’ Achan further added.
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