Written By | Our Reporter
PDM was launched by President Museveni to help people with small startups
Search
Bushenyi
Police in Bushenyi District have launched investigations into alleged fraud and extortion involving beneficiaries of the Parish Development Model (PDM) programme.
The investigations follow complaints that three residents of Kakanju Sub-county—Muhanguzi Julius, Kobugabe Grace, and Nahweera Private—were registered as PDM beneficiaries in 2022 but have never received the funds.
“The complainants were officially registered as beneficiaries, but up to now they have not received the PDM money,” said SP Apollo Tayebwa, the Greater Bushenyi Regional Police Spokesperson.
In a related development, police are investigating six cases of alleged extortion in which prospective beneficiaries were reportedly asked to pay amounts ranging from Shs16,000 to Shs120,000 before accessing PDM funds.
The victims have been identified as Byaruhanga Arthur, Natukunda Beneath, Atuheire Esther, Twikirize Denavence, and Mirembe Evelyn, all residents of Bushenyi District.
“Preliminary findings indicate that the victims were allegedly required to pay money to some local leaders in order to receive Shs1 million each under the PDM programme,” Tayebwa said.
Police allege that the payments were demanded by Magoma Hamson, the LCII chairperson of Kahungye Parish, Nimwesiga Lauben, and four other suspects.
“We have so far arrested Magoma Hamson and Nimwesiga Lauben to assist police with investigations,” Tayebwa confirmed.
He condemned the alleged acts, saying police would ensure that those responsible are held accountable.
“We strongly condemn such practices, and we are committed to investigating this matter to its logical conclusion,” Tayebwa said.
Tayebwa also appealed to the public to cooperate with police by reporting similar cases.
“We urge members of the public to report any form of extortion or fraud related to government programmes so that justice can be served,” he added.
Torch Media Africa
