Police rescue sub-county chief from being lynched

Police in Namisindwa District on Monday rescued the Namboko sub-county chief from an angry mob who wanted to lynch him on allegations of embezzling Shs17 million meant for a number of government programmes.

The group of people comprising of the elderly men and youth from different villages within the sub-county rounded up the sub-county chief Mr Sam Watengeli and ordered him to get out of his office, lock it and hand over the keys with immediate effect.

The sub-county chief who was held hostage by the angry mob was later detained at Namisindwa Central Police station to record a statement over the allegations of embezzling funds and abuse of office.

The angry residents also demanded to know how the money was spent, which the sub-county chief was reportedly unable to explain.

The Elgon region Police spokesperson, Mr Robert Tukei confirmed the incident “We arrested him because people wanted to kill him. Police swung into action and saved him.”

Mr Tukei said they have opened a general enquiry file at Namisindwa Central Police station on allegations that the suspect embezzled Shs17.2 million.

“We are investigating the matter and we have summoned relevant authorities to record statements,” he said.

The Namboko sub county LC3 chairperson, Mr Stephen Stuma commended the residents, stating that he had halted the handover unless Watengeli refunds the money he had allegedly embezzled.

According to Stuma, the money was meant for laying of a foundation of the sub-county office block, culvert installation on the Wanamule road, grading a community road from the sub-county headquarters to Nabisihi trading centre, office attendant’s wages and spring well protection.

“The community was angry because it is their money. They were right to demand accountability,” he said.

The RDC Namisindwa, Mr Moses Wamoto Kigai, said, “Whoever embezzles government funds should pay heavily. These are the people making locals to hate the government.”

SOURCE: Daily Monitor.