Three Arrested Over UGX 1.5 Billion Theft in Northern Uganda (UG) Cattle Compensation Scam
The campaign against corruption in Northern Uganda (UG) has seen progress following the arrest of three individuals implicated in the theft of over UGX 1.5 billion. These funds were part of a government programme aimed at compensating victims of historical insurgencies and cattle raids.
On Monday afternoon, the suspects were arraigned before the Otuke Magistrate’s Court in a joint operation involving the Anti-Corruption Unit, the Criminal Investigations Directorate (CID), and the Office of the Director of Public Prosecutions (ODPP).
The accused include:
- Akasa Jimmy Mokili – Politician and businessman from Agago District
- Okengo Jaspher – Local Council III Chairperson of Ogor Sub-county, Otuke
- Sgt. Amoni Benz (alias Okengo Bonny) – Active member of the Uganda People’s Defence Forces (UPDF)
They face charges of theft and conspiracy to defraud thousands of elderly claimants under the Northern Uganda (UG) Cattle Compensation Programme. The initiative was designed to provide redress to individuals who lost livestock during the Lord’s Resistance Army (LRA) insurgency and the Karamoja cattle raids.
Investigations revealed that the suspects, along with unidentified accomplices, exploited victims during the registration and bank account opening stages. By illicitly collecting personal and financial details, they manipulated the compensation system, resulting in beneficiaries receiving little or no compensation at all.
Authorities estimate that in Otuke District alone, over UGX 1.5 billion was misappropriated. The scam is believed to extend to other districts across the Lango, Acholi, and Teso sub-regions, where compensation schemes remain under scrutiny.
The suspects have been remanded until August 19, 2025, as investigations continue.
The development has ignited concern and outrage among local communities, many of whom have waited years for justice. Authorities have reaffirmed their commitment to rooting out corruption and ensuring that compensation reaches the intended recipients.
The Urban Gazette — Your Online Publication for Local and International News and Advertising Platform.
