Rubanda District was today rocked by scandal as five local officials were apprehended for allegedly extorting money from beneficiaries of the Parish Development Model (PDM). Acting swiftly on public outcry, Rubanda District Acting RDC Eric Ssewandingi conducted the arrests in Ikumba Sub-county and Nshanjare Town Council.
The arrested individuals include Tumwesigye Lius, Atuheire Unique, Tumwesigye Gerald, Ahimbisibwe Elia, and Mwesigye Justus. They stand accused of coercing payments ranging from 50,000 to 100,000 shillings from PDM beneficiaries, totaling an estimated 2.5 million shillings recovered during the operation.
Acting RDC Ssewandingi emphasized the gravity of the offenses, stating that the extortion directly targeted vulnerable individuals relying on PDM assistance. Testimonies from affected beneficiaries, such as Biryomumeisho Marizon and Owoyesigire Yared, corroborate claims of forced payments under threat of exclusion from the program.
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Ssewandigi further said that the arrests underscore the ongoing efforts to combat corruption and ensure transparent implementation of government initiatives aimed at community development. He pledged continued vigilance against any further instances of exploitation within the PDM framework, reaffirming commitment to justice and accountability.
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Local authorities are currently investigating the extent of the extortion scheme, urging affected individuals to come forward with additional information to aid in prosecution and safeguard the integrity of social welfare programs in Rubanda District.
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