Kitgum probes theft of pipes for Shs30b project
Vandalised. Workers at the water project site where pipes have been stolen in Kitgum District. Photo by DENIS OPOKA
What you need to know:
- Ms Brenda Akao, the communication officer for northern region in Ministry of Water and Environment, said they were not yet aware of the matter but added that they would find out.
Security committees in Kitgum District have launched an investigation into the theft of materials for a Shs30 billion water project in Orom Sub-county.
It is alleged that a 300-metre roll of plastic pipes was stolen from Lakwanya Parish and several litres of fuel siphoned from trucks at the site last month.
Mr William Komakech, the Resident District Commissioner and chairperson of the security committees, on Tuesday said the investigations will identify the culprits.
“Those behind it are enemies of progress and they should be traced and arrested and prosecuted. Instead of welcoming the project, they are instead failing its progress,’’ Mr Komakech said.
“My office, police and sub-county leadership together with other sister security organisations are already on the ground investigating,” he added.
He said the suspects might have connived with residents to steal the pipes.
Mr Komakech also ordered the deployment of more security personnel at the project sites, saying the vandalism discourages investors.
During a site meeting last week, Mr Frank Minhu, the project manager, China State Engineering Corporation Limited, said theft of the materials was a challenge because they have to keep deploying guards to protect the equipment.
The project involves installation, and commissioning of 11 pressed steel tanks of 50 cubic metres, 100 cubic metres and 150 cubic metres on 18-metre support tower, testing and commissioning of the pump and solar system.
Ms Brenda Akao, the communication officer for northern region in Ministry of Water and Environment, said they were not yet aware of the matter but added that they would find out.
About project
The project site is under Orom water supply and sanitation Project phase 1. It is being implemented by Ministry of Water and Environment with funding from the African Development Bank. The project consists of 6 mini-solar power, 4 in Kitgum-Katwotwo-Lakwanya, Kalabong, Orom (Agoromin and Agoromin city) and Pudo in Mucwini Sub County, the contract was awarded to China States Construction Engineering Corporation Limited. Works started in July and are expected to end in July 2021.
