Four individuals, including a town agent, have been arrested in connection with the alleged embezzlement of Parish Development Model (PDM) funds in Kiryandongo Town Council.
The suspects, who reportedly conspired to siphon approximately Shs1 million intended to support vulnerable community members, were apprehended on April 22, 2025, from their respective residences.
Those arrested have been identified as Juliet Katusabe, the Town Agent for Northern Ward in Kiryandongo Town Council; Edward Katusiime, leader of Anguliga SACCO; an unnamed PDM enterprise leader from Mukonogum Cell; and Mary Atim, Secretary in the District Production Department.
Preliminary investigations suggest that Mary Atim fraudulently used the national identification credentials of a local resident, Mrs. Katusiime Oliva of Runyanya Village, to register and illegally withdraw funds under the PDM initiative.
The fraud came to light after Mrs. Katusiime reported that her phone, SIM card, and photocopies of her national ID had been misused without her knowledge or consent. Her complaint prompted the Assistant Resident District Commissioner (RDC), Mr. Sam Mbabazi, alongside Deputy RDC Mr. Jonathan Akakwetereho, to initiate an investigation that culminated in the arrests.
Mr. Mbabazi has called upon the public to report any concerns related to PDM fund mismanagement directly to his office. Meanwhile, Kiryandongo Town Council Clerk, Ms. Lydia Tusabe, condemned the incident, particularly because it involved council staff, and emphasized the need for the law to take its full course.
Deputy RDC Akakwetereho reiterated that the PDM program is designed to benefit the economically disadvantaged and warned that any individuals found guilty of abuse will be prosecuted. RDC Dan Muganga also ordered the immediate arrest of anyone implicated in the misappropriation of funds meant for the poor.
Musa Matende, a resident of Northern Ward, welcomed the arrests, expressing hope that they would help curb the ongoing concerns surrounding PDM fund mismanagement.
According to police at Kiryandongo Central Police Station, investigations are still ongoing, with the possibility of additional suspects being implicated. The four suspects remain in custody and are expected to appear in court soon.