Dozens of equipment stolen from Gulu Irrigation Scheme

Police in Gulu District are investigating circumstance under which 29 Gabion Mesh Machines at Ayweri Irrigation Scheme in Paibona Sub county, were stolen.

Sub County authorities say thieves gained access to Ayweri Irrigation Scheme on Saturday and made off with 29 Gabion Machines that were being used to construct the scheme.

Gabion Mesh Machines also known as Heavy Duty Hexagonal Wire Mesh machine is a special braiding machine used to fabricate wire mesh used in the construction of water reservoirs.

Mr Richard Watmon, the Paibona Sub County chairman says the machines are valued at Shs10 million.

He said the theft has crippled the construction of the 20-acre irrigation scheme.

Mr Watmon said police are interrogating residents in a bid to recover the stolen machines.

He said no arrests have been made.

Mr David Kiwanuka, the site engineer says the theft was carried out when the security guard was away from his duty station.

This is the second time thieves are stealing from the irrigation scheme whose construction started last year.

The project is intended to boost food security and agricultural production in the region.