Norman Ijuka, the Arua district water engineer currently in police custody for suspected theft of sh130 million, is slated to be formally charged next week. Ali Munira, Inspectorate of Government spokesperson, confirmed that Ijuka is set to face charges of abuse of office at the Anti-Corruption Court in Nakasero.
Ijuka was apprehended on January 3 on suspicion of misappropriating funds intended for district projects. Deputy Inspector General of Government Patricia Achan Okiria disclosed that Ijuka allegedly misappropriated 847 water pipes meant for the Odupi water project in Omugo sub-county, Arua district.
The accusations also include the theft of iron bars, concrete blocks, and assorted paint valued at around sh30 million from the construction site of an office block. These materials were the property of the National Water and Sewerage Corporation. It is alleged that Ijuka falsely claimed the work had been completed when it had not.
Under Section 11(1) of the Anti-Corruption Court Act, a person found guilty of the offense of abuse of office could face up to seven years’ imprisonment upon conviction, a fine not exceeding sh1.3 million, or both. Ijuka remains in police custody as he awaits his court appearance. The Inspectorate of Government continues its investigation into the suspected misappropriation of funds and theft.
