Njeru – Police in Njeru Municipality have arrested one of their own over the alleged theft of vehicle batteries from a truck parked at the Uganda National Roads Authority (UNRA) yard near the Nile Bridge.
The suspect was reportedly on duty when the theft occurred. The case, filed under CRB 783/2024, has drawn widespread condemnation.
According to reports, the truck, a Fuso registration number UBD 833W, broke down on November 22, 2024, and was parked at the UNRA yard.
The theft was discovered the following morning when two batteries were found missing.
Adam Wogongo, 17, the vehicle's turn-man and a resident of Soroti City, filed the complaint on November 27.
Initial investigations, led by DPC Njeru SP Hussein Mugarura, revealed CCTV footage showing a male traffic officer taking away the batteries.
Lt Bernard Beja, an army officer overseeing UNRA security, flagged the footage for review.
The police officer, a resident of Njeru Police Barracks, was identified and arrested. Authorities allege that he left his colleagues under the pretext of responding to an accident, returning alone to commit the crime.
Statements have been taken from officers and UNRA personnel present that night, and the divisional Scene of Crime Officer (SOCO) has examined the scene.
A detailed analysis of the CCTV footage is ongoing.
“This is a serious breach of trust and conduct unbecoming of an officer. We will ensure the matter is thoroughly investigated, and justice is served,” said SP Hellen Butoto.
The suspect remains in custody at Njeru Central Police Station as inquiries continue.