The Arua district water engineer, Norman Ijuka, currently in Police custody for suspected theft of sh130 million, is set to be formally charged with abuse of office at the Anti-Corruption Court in Nakasero next week. The Inspectorate of Government spokesperson, Ali Munira, confirmed the impending charges and stated that Ijuka remains in custody pending his court appearance.
Deputy Inspector General of Government, Patricia Achan Okiria, disclosed that Ijuka is accused of misappropriating 847 water pipes earmarked for the Odupi water project in Omugo sub-county, Arua district. Additionally, he is alleged to have stolen iron bars, concrete blocks, and assorted paint valued at approximately sh30 million from the office block construction site, property belonging to the National Water and Sewerage Corporation.
The investigation revealed that Ijuka falsely claimed the completion of assigned work, which had not been accomplished. The charges to be brought against him include abuse of office under Section 11(1) of the Anti-Corruption Court Act.
If found guilty of abuse of office, Ijuka could face up to seven years in prison upon conviction, a fine not exceeding sh1.3 million, or both, as stipulated by the law.
