Three arrested for vandalizing electricity power line in Buikwe
The suspects are currently in police custody as further inquiries continue
Buikwe: Police in Buikwe District have arrested three suspects in connection with the vandalism of a UEDCL electricity power line in Tega Village, Kabanga Parish, Najjembe Division.
According to police reports, the arrest followed an intelligence tip-off from a whistleblower on the night of June 8, 2025, at approximately 11:30 PM. A joint operation led by the Uganda Police Force and the Uganda People’s Defence Forces (UPDF), under the command of Lt. Charles Ssempijja, resulted in the apprehension of the suspects.
The arrested individuals include Mugweri Denis Waiswa Malagala, 34, a linesman at HASO Engineering Company and resident of Namengo Kiteeredde Central, Lugazi Central Division, Abit Phillip, 21, a loader and resident of Tega Village, Kabanga Parish and Lunanoba Rashid, 21, a boda-boda cyclist residing in Kasoga Village, Kabanga Parish.
According to SP Hellen Butoto, spokesperson for the Ssezibwa Region, law enforcement recovered several exhibits from the suspects, including tools typically used in power line installation and two “danger” plates. These items were found in the homes of Mugweri and Lunanoba.
SP Butoto added that investigations are ongoing to recover additional equipment and identify possible accomplices involved in the act.
Vandalism of electricity infrastructure is a serious offense in Uganda, punishable under the Electricity Amendment Act of 2022, which stipulates a maximum penalty of 15 years in prison, a fine of UGX 1 billion, or both for those convicted. The law is part of government efforts to safeguard the country’s power supply and support national development.
The suspects are currently in police custody as further inquiries continue.
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