The Inspectorate of Government (IGG) has arrested the Commissioner for Refugee Management in the Office of the Prime Minister (OPM), his assistant, and five other officials over alleged extortion during the registration of refugees in Uganda.
The Commissioner, Patrick Okello, his assistant Douglas Asiimwe, and the other officials, along with a Pakistani national, Zafar Ahmad, are accused of soliciting money from asylum seekers.
Investigations indicate that Ahmad acted as a link between the officials and the refugees, coordinating transactions believed to be part of the alleged scheme.
Other officials arrested include Geoffrey Mugabe, Senior Settlement Commandant; Noel Ekwap, Head of Information Technology; Henry Bweme, Registration Officer; and Arnold Nadiope, Refugee Status Interviewing Officer.
According to the IGG, the arrests followed a search operation during which investigators retrieved critical documents to support the ongoing inquiry. The suspects have since recorded statements at the IGG offices.
“The suspects are expected to assist investigators as inquiries into the alleged extortion network continue. This operation underscores the government’s commitment to fighting corruption and ensuring integrity in public service delivery,” the IGG said in a statement.
The move highlights the government’s continued efforts to tackle corruption in public institutions and protect vulnerable communities, including refugees.
