NAKASONGOLA
Five members of a local land allocation committee have been arraigned in court on multiple criminal charges, including conspiracy to defraud, assault causing grievous harm, malicious damage to property, and unlawful confinement.
The suspects—Kasibante Robert, Kawa Robert, Musisi Julius, Gawera Ronald, and Semata Vincent—were jointly charged following investigations by the State House Anti-Corruption Unit in collaboration with Uganda Police Force and the Office of the Director of Public Prosecutions.
Authorities say the accused, along with others still at large, were members of a Land Allocation Committee that allegedly engaged in the illegal subdivision and distribution of land within Kyarubanga Forest Reserve before it was officially degazetted. According to investigators, the actions were carried out in contravention of a directive issued by President Yoweri Museveni regarding the proper process for degazettement of the forest reserve.
Forceful Evictions and Violence
Prosecution alleges that the accused forcefully took possession of land occupied by lawful tenants and redistributed it among themselves and other individuals, including non-residents of Nakasongola District.
The disputed land allocations reportedly sparked violent confrontations, resulting in assaults, destruction of property, and unlawful confinement of some victims.
Fraud Allegations
In addition to the land disputes, the committee members are accused of obtaining money from members of the public under the pretext of allocating them land.
Investigations indicate that in several cases, the promised land was never allocated, raising concerns of fraud and exploitation.
Investigations Ongoing
The intervention by the State House Anti-Corruption Unit followed a directive from the President to investigate alleged corruption and irregularities within the Land Allocation Committee.
Authorities say investigations are still ongoing, with efforts underway to apprehend additional suspects linked to the scheme.
Remand
The accused have been remanded until April 14, 2026, as inquiries into the matter continue.
