Kole District – June 19, 2025
Police in Kole District have arrested two individuals in connection with the alleged theft of UGX 50 million from the Parish Development Model (PDM) fund, a key government initiative aimed at boosting household incomes and alleviating poverty at the parish level.
The suspects, identified as Olila Martine and Omodi Denis, both residents of Okwor Village, Ayer Sub-County, were taken into custody following a complaint filed on June 18, 2025, by Maj. Aldo Alele Onyango, the Operational Wealth Creation Officer for Kole District.
Preliminary investigations indicate that on June 2, 2025, the suspects—alongside others still at large—fraudulently withdrew UGX 50 million from the designated PDM account meant for community beneficiaries. Following the withdrawal, the suspects allegedly disappeared with the funds. Shockingly, SMS notifications were sent to the intended recipients, falsely indicating they had received their payments.
Upon learning of the irregularity, Kole Central Police Station opened a General Enquiry File (G.E.F) and began an immediate investigation. Statements have been recorded from all affected beneficiaries.
During the arrest operation, officers successfully recovered UGX 21 million from suspect Olila Martine. Authorities believe the suspects manipulated the payment system by inserting new, unauthorized names into the official list of beneficiaries to facilitate the fraudulent withdrawals.
“The suspects deliberately undermined a crucial government program. We are committed to bringing all those involved to justice and restoring public confidence in the PDM system,” said SP Patrick Jimmy Okema, PRO for the North Kyoga Region.
The case file is currently being compiled for submission to the Resident State Attorney, and efforts to track down the remaining culprits are ongoing.
Police urge the public to report any suspicious dealings involving government funds and reiterate their commitment to upholding transparency and accountability in all government programs.
