UGANDA, Katakwi | Real Muloodi News | The Katakwi District planner, Mr. Martin Aleli, found himself behind bars on Friday, February 21, 2024, as he was remanded to Katakwi government prison over accusations of fraudulent land transactions.
Appearing before the Katakwi grade one magistrate, Agnes Abalo, Mr. Aleli was charged with several counts related to fraudulent land dealings spanning from 2010 to 2024.
The prosecution outlined that Aleli allegedly engaged in the fraudulent demarcation of land, including Plot 132 Block 3, plot 48 on Block 3, and Plot 100 on Block 3.
Additionally, he was accused of failing to provide proper planning for plot 132 block 3 within Katakwi town during the same period.
Despite pleading not guilty to the charges, Mr. Aleli’s attempt to secure bail was thwarted by Mr. George Engena, the resident State Attorney of Katakwi. Engena expressed concerns that granting bail to the accused could compromise ongoing investigations.
“The accused must remain in custody as the office is considered a crime scene, and investigating officers are actively examining crucial documents,” remarked Engena during the court proceedings.
In light of the State Attorney’s arguments, the magistrate ordered Mr. Aleli’s remand until February 26, 2024, when he is scheduled to return to court for further proceedings.
In response to the allegations, Mr. Aleli’s legal representative, Mr. Onyait, contended that the charges against his client were speculative. He emphasised that there were no corruption-related charges documented in the case file thus far.
However, the Katakwi Resident District Commission, Rtd Maj Godfrey Katamba, asserted that Mr. Aleli was implicated in the fraudulent sale of various parcels of land.
Allegations include the unauthorised sale of 12 acres of NARO land, as well as 1000 acres of Olilim land and over 12,000 hectares of government land in Okore.
The case against Mr. Aleli underscores the gravity of fraudulent land transactions and the importance of upholding integrity and transparency in land management processes.
As investigations unfold, stakeholders remain vigilant to ensure accountability and justice in the handling of land-related matters within Katakwi District.
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