The Inspectorate of Government (IGG) has arrested Kibaale District Chief Administrative Officer (CAO) John Katotoroma over allegations of illegally hiring out a government-owned bulldozer to a private company for personal gain.
Katotoroma was arrested during a spot-check conducted by officers from the IGG Hoima Regional Office, working jointly with police.
The operation also led to the impounding of the district bulldozer, registration number LG 0028-19, valued at approximately Shs600 million. The machine is currently being held at Kibaale Central Police Station.
According to the IGG, preliminary investigations established that the bulldozer was allegedly being irregularly hired out to Karukana Enterprises Ltd, contrary to the laws and regulations governing the management and use of government property.
“Preliminary investigations established that the bulldozer was allegedly being irregularly hired out to Karukana Enterprises Ltd for private gain,” the Inspectorate said in a statement.
The IGG added that preliminary findings indicate the alleged arrangement involved Katotoroma and the District Engineer, Chrizestom Bagire.
Following his arrest, Katotoroma was 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.
Meanwhile, District Engineer Chrizestom Bagire has not been arrested but has been invited by the IGG Hoima Regional Office to assist with the ongoing investigations.
The IGG reaffirmed its commitment to protecting public resources, saying, “IGG reiterates its commitment to safeguarding public assets, combating corruption, and ensuring that government resources are managed lawfully, transparently and solely for the benefit of the public.”
