Busoga East has emerged as the region with the highest number of crimes linked to the Parish Development Model (PDM), according to the latest police annual report.
Out of 389 PDM-related cases registered nationwide, 47 were reported in Busoga East, followed by Elgon with 29 and East Kyoga with 26.
The report indicates that theft is the most common PDM-related offense, accounting for 198 cases, followed by obtaining money by false pretences with 68 cases and extortion with 32.
Other crimes include cheating, misappropriation of government funds, fraud, embezzlement, and corruption.
Of the total cases, 228 were submitted to the Resident State Attorney/Director of Public Prosecutions for legal guidance, and 186 have been taken to court.
So far, 21 people have been convicted, 43 acquitted, 20 cases dismissed, while 102 are still undergoing trial. Another 202 cases remain under inquiry.
Within Busoga, Namutumba District recorded the highest number of cases at 25, followed by Kween with 14, Bududa with 11, and Mbale Busoba with 10.
Police warn that the high number of cases in the region points to continued challenges in managing and overseeing the PDM program.
