The Inspectorate of Government (IG) has arrested the Chief Administrative Officer (CAO) of Kibaale District, John Katotoroma, over the alleged misuse of government property and impounded a district bulldozer valued at approximately Shs600 million.
The bulldozer, registration number LG 0028-19, was seized during a spot-check operation conducted by officers from the Inspectorate of Government's Hoima Regional Office in collaboration with Hoima Central Police Station.
It is currently being held at Kibaale Central Police Station as investigations continue.
According to the Inspectorate, preliminary investigations established that the bulldozer was allegedly being irregularly hired out to Karukana Enterprises Ltd for private gain.
Investigators allege that the arrangement involved Katotoroma and the district engineer, Chrizestom Bagire, in contravention of laws governing the management and use of government property.
Following the operation, Katotoroma was arrested and detained at Kibaale Central Police Station, where he recorded a statement before being released on police bond.
The Inspectorate said investigations into the alleged misuse of government property, contrary to Section 9(5) of the Anti-Corruption Act, Cap. 116, are ongoing.
Bagire is not in custody but has been summoned by the Inspectorate's Hoima Regional Office to assist with the investigations.
The Inspectorate of Government said it remains committed to protecting public assets, fighting corruption and ensuring that government resources are managed lawfully, transparently and exclusively for the benefit of the public.
If the allegations are substantiated, the case will add to a growing list of investigations into the alleged misuse of government equipment and public resources by officials in local governments.
