The State House Anti-Corruption Unit (SHACU), working alongside the Uganda Police Criminal Investigations Directorate (CID), has cracked down on a high-level corruption scandal in Busia Municipality involving the alleged embezzlement of over UGX1 billion meant for road maintenance.

The accused, who were arraigned before the Busia Chief Magistrates Court on Friday, May 16, 2025, face charges of theft and conspiracy to defraud the government.

The officials named include: Baganzi Ronald Ross, former Town Clerk, Busia MC, current TC Kumi; James Kiganda Farouk Municipal Engineer; Wycliffe Chimulwa, Principal Accountant; Martin Sekamanya, Assistant Engineering Officer; Javenarly Kundu, Foreman Works; Christopher Kyaligonza, Manager Shell Busia; and Were Mukisa, Assistant Manager Shell Busia.

According to SHACU, the accused conspired to siphon funds through Shell Busia, falsely documenting fuel supplies that were never delivered.

The scheme came to light after multiple community barazas, where residents raised concerns about misuse of public resources.

“The accused, using the engineering department and in conspiracy with Shell Busia staff, channelled funds through the fuel station disguised as supplies to the municipality,” SHACU said in a statement.

Investigations confirmed that at least UGX200 million was misappropriated from the road grant.

In a related case, Asset David, Chairperson of North “C” Parish Development Model (PDM) SACCO, has been charged with extortion, allegedly demanding bribes from PDM beneficiaries to access their funds.

All suspects have been remanded until May 30, 2025, as investigations continue.