According to investigators, Okello Samuel frequently obtained fuel without proper authorization or documentation and allegedly diverted it for unknown purposes.
Two Ngora District officials and a private contractor have been charged before the Ngora Grade One Magistrates Court over the alleged mismanagement of funds intended for road works.
The suspects—Opio Stanislas Francis, the Acting District Engineer; Okello Samuel, the Assistant Engineering Officer; and Oroni Herbert, Station Manager of Retta Solutions Uganda Ltd—were arraigned on charges of theft and conspiracy to defraud. They have been remanded until May 5, 2026.
The trio was arrested following a joint operation by the State House Anti-Corruption Unit, the Criminal Investigations Directorate, and the Office of the Director of Public Prosecutions.
Prosecution alleges that between 2024 and March 2026, the accused, along with others still at large, conspired to steal fuel worth more than sh35m belonging to Ngora District Local Government. The fuel was reportedly diverted under the false pretense that it would be used for road construction and maintenance within the district.
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Investigations further reveal that Ngora District received approximately sh1.75bn during the 2024/2025 and 2025/2026 financial years for road rehabilitation and maintenance. However, concerns were raised by community members and local stakeholders over the poor state of roads, prompting scrutiny into how the funds were utilized.
According to investigators, Okello Samuel frequently obtained fuel without proper authorization or documentation and allegedly diverted it for unknown purposes. He is said to have acted in collusion with Oroni Herbert, who managed fuel distribution at Retta Solutions Uganda Ltd.
Meanwhile, Opio Stanislas Francis is accused of failing to carry out his supervisory duties effectively, which allegedly enabled the misuse of district resources.
Authorities say investigations are ongoing to apprehend additional suspects linked to the scheme.
Government disburses funds annually to districts and municipalities to support road maintenance and improve service delivery. However, anti-corruption agencies note that misuse of such funds remains a persistent challenge, often resulting in substandard infrastructure and delayed development projects.
