Police in Kole District have launched investigations into the theft of soya crude oil valued at approximately UGX 12 million from a local factory, with three suspects already in custody.
The case was reported on May 2, 2026, at around 3:00 PM at Kole Central Police Station. The complainant, Mayur Patel, a 35-year-old businessman and investor residing in Abolonyero Village, Telela Parish, Ayer Sub-county, reported the disappearance of his consignment from DIG Oil Factory premises.
According to preliminary findings, the theft is believed to have occurred on the night of May 1, 2026, at an unknown time. It is alleged that unidentified individuals, working in connivance with a security guard attached to the facility, unlawfully accessed the factory and made away with approximately 2,000 litres of soya crude oil.
The implicated security guard, identified as Obongo Eric, reportedly failed to report the incident promptly and only disclosed the matter on May 2 at around midday, after the loss had already been discovered by the complainant.
A team of police officers led by the District Scene of Crime Officer (SOCO), alongside detectives from Kole Central Police Station, visited the scene, documented evidence, and commenced inquiries.
Three suspects have since been arrested to assist with investigations. These include Obongo Eric, the security guard; Ojuka Lamek, a security supervisor at DIG Oil Company; and Awio Jaspher, a machine operator at the facility. Police say statements have been recorded from the suspects as investigations continue.
Authorities are now pursuing additional suspects believed to be linked to the illegal trade of the stolen oil, particularly business dealers operating in nearby Lira City.
The Territorial Police in North Kyoga Region have assured the public that efforts are ongoing to recover the stolen consignment and bring all those involved to justice.
Police spokesperson Patrick Jimmy Okema confirmed that inquiries are still underway and pledged to provide updates as new developments emerge.
