UGANDA, Lira | Real Muloodi News | On Tuesday, December 12, 2023, the State House Anti-Corruption Unit (SH-ACU) issued a press statement addressing concerns related to the irregular disposal of public land in Lira City and District.
The unit, prompted by numerous complaints, collaborated with the local police in Lira to apprehend Mr Okello Lawrence, a businessman, and Mr Okwiri Joel, Chairperson of the Area Land Committee, Railways Division, on December 6, 2023.
The duo faced charges before the Lira Chief Magistrates Court, including Fraudulent Procurement of a Certificate of Title, Conspiracy to Commit a Felony, altering, destroying, and defacing boundary marks of the forest, and clearing and occupying a forest reserve for commercial purposes.
Responding to allegations of witch hunts against the police and SH-ACU officers, the press statement highlighted the serious nature of the charges against Okello Lawrence and Okwiri Joel.
The investigation revealed that, between 2018 and 2020, Okwiri, in his capacity as Chairperson of the Area Land Committee, Railway Division, collaborated with Okello to forge signatures and process land titles in the name of Okwiri’s minor son, Aliro Mark.
Subsequently, Okwiri facilitated the transfer of the land from his son’s name to Okello Lawrence. Exploiting the fraudulently acquired title, Okello proceeded to clear part of the forest reserve, filled it with murram, and constructed a petrol station.
Despite warnings from the Ministry of Water and Environment officials in Lira, Okello persisted in his illegal activities, reportedly with support from certain politicians.
The evidence gathered during the investigation led to the submission of a case file to the Office of the Director of Public Prosecutions (DPP), resulting in charges against the suspects.
The press statement emphasised that the court would determine the case’s merits through due process.
In response to accusations of local leaders siding with criminals involved in grabbing public land in Lira, SH-ACU affirmed its commitment to thorough investigations.
The unit clarified that it investigates based on clear evidence, and upon confirmation, the DPP presses charges and prosecutes those found culpable. Similar investigations are reportedly underway in various regions across the country.
The press statement expressed gratitude to citizens for reporting acts of impunity and corruption, underscoring SH-ACU’s dedication to combat fraud and hold perpetrators accountable.
The unit vowed to continue its efforts to uphold the rule of law and tackle corruption wherever it arises.
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