HIGH COURT in Kampala has sentenced Joseph Sooka, a former employee of the National Social Security Fund (NSSF), to five years in prison for fraudulently withdrawing over UGX 152M from the Fund’s suspense account.
This is after NSSF handed him over to the Uganda Police in October 2019 and Director of Public Prosecutions following an internal investigation that established suspicious withdraws he had fraudulently processed over time.
For starters, the suspense account is where the Fund temporarily saves contributions with unclear details of the member accounts to which they should be deposited. The money is later allocated to the respective member accounts upon reconciliation with the contributing employers.
The Fund’s Internal Audit Department in October 2019 established that Joseph Sooka had presented fictitious claim documents that he used to access monies of the unsuspecting members between May 2017 and July 2019.  
“All the monies released on account of the false claims was credited to the (bank) accounts controlled by the accused…,” reads the judgement delivered by Hon. Lady Justice Margaret Tibulya. 
Sooka, was convicted on a total of ten counts that included embezzlement, money laundering, forgery and uttering of false documents. Justice Margaret Tibulya convicted Sooka on each of the ten counts as charged. He was asked to refund the shs152m he had stolen from the Fund and banned from assuming any positions in public offices for a period of ten years.

HOW HE WAS DETECTED
At the time of his arrest, Joseph Sooka had fraudulently claimed monies for seven members. The Fund’s internal audit team identified unusual withdraws on the suspense account following a tip off by one of the victims. 
It was discovered that the genuine members hadn’t claimed for their monies although claims had been processed in their favour.
Ms. Barbra Arimi, the Fund’s Head Marketing and Corporate Affairs said that the win demonstrated the Fund’s zero tolerance to fraud. 
“We are committed to protecting our members’ savings at all costs and have put in place several security checks to prevent fraud especially from the suspense account.” Said Barbra Arimi.
The Fund has since put in place initiatives to mitigate the growth of balances on the suspense account. These initiatives include the e-collections portal which makes it impossible for employers to remit without complete employee information, publication of suspense in different media platforms as well as field engagements aimed at tracing members on the suspense account.   
In addition, the Fund has fully integrated with NIRA to enable the registration of members, and this has significantly reduced the amount of incoming suspense.
“The bulk of the suspense relates to historical periods. Once all efforts to clear suspense are exhausted, we will publish all pending suspense and have it moved to the reserve as per provisions of the NSSF Act (as amended).” Madam Arimi told this leading investigative news website.

ABOUT NSSF 
The National Social Security Fund Uganda is a multi-trillion Fund mandated by Government through the NSSF Act, as amended, to provide social security services to employees in the private sector. 
The Fund is a secure, innovative, and dynamic social security provider that guarantees safety, security, and a competitive return on members’ savings of over 2% above the 10-year inflation average. 
The Fund manages assets worth over UGX 17.8 trillion, invested in Fixed Income, Equities and Real Estate assets within the East Africa region. As the largest Fund in East Africa by value, we have the ambitious goal of growing our Assets Under Management to 20 trillion by 2025.  
The Fund is regulated by the Uganda Retirement Benefits Regulatory Authority while the Minister of Gender, Labour & Social Development, and the Minister of Finance, Planning & Economic Development are responsible for policy oversight.

For views/comments on this story, Whatsapp editor on 0772523039

The post NSSF WINS UGX 152M CASE, COURT SENDS MAN TO FIVE YEARS IN PRISON OVER FRAUD appeared first on News Editor.

POLICE has released an official statement on Kawanda Secondary School murder which took place today Friday morning as parents were picking their children for Third Term holiday!
Police says, the killer parent used AK47 not a pistol as was earlier alleged.
Here is the full statement as released by ASP Luke Owoyesigyire, Deputy PRO KMP;
The territorial Police at Kawempe are investigating a murder by shooting that happened today Friday at about 9am at Kawanda Senior Secondary School in Nakisangye Zone, Nabweru Division in Wakiso.
The Victim has been identified as Waligo Ronald, 38 a resident of Kirinya Bigo Kawanda in wakiso who was allegedly shot by a suspected UPDF driver identified as Ssali Abdul.
It is alleged that the duo got a misunderstanding when Ssali was driving a updf vehicle leaving the school premises after picking one of the students in senior three.
Preliminary investigations into the matter indicate that Abdul was leaving the school when he met a number of motorcycles and cars at the gate. The road being narrow, this prompted him to squeeze on the side where the deceased had parked.
This caused an altercation after Waligo complained to the driver of being squeezed which attracted a big group of riders that also condemned his action .
This prompted the driver to enter his vehicle where he picked an AK47 rifle shooting at the victim. He died instantly and the driver sped off from the crime scene.
We have been able to identify the vehicle with the help of CCTV cameras. The number plate of the said vehicle has been identified by the Police as H4DF 1939.
The Police was invited at the scene where they noted that the deceased was shot on left shoulder and the bullet came out from the right shoulder something that killed him instantly at the scene his body was conveyed to city mortuary Mulago for Postmortem , we also recovered a motorcycle Bajaj Boxer UEG 721c that belongs to the deceased at the scene of crime .
The territorial Police at Kampala Metropolitan will liase with the UPDF to help identify the driver for statement recording and Prosecution.
More details will be availed as soon as Possible.

For views/comments on this story, WhatsApp editor on 0772523039

The post KAWANDA SEC. SCHOOL MURDER: ‘KILLER PARENT USED AK47’, POLICE SPEAKS OUT! appeared first on News Editor.

● Kisitu lost 300 heards of Cattle and banana plantations during the NRA bush guerrilla war. His land is also being grabbed! Sad!
● Family accuses former Administrators of their father’s estate Kenneth Mayambala, John Kaweesa, Mark Mivule, Alice Terukanya and Harriet Nalubwama for being in bed with land grabbers

STORY BY MEDDIE KITYO
BUYALA, MPIGI DISTRICT
NEWS EDITOR MEDIA 

CHILDREN of former NRA bush war hero Lt. Ephraim Kisitu Ssalongo headed by the heir Ronald Magunda are in tears and helpless, after a group of merciless gunmen and stick-welding men raided them at night and evicted them from their late father’s land measuring 56 acres at Namwabula, Buyala, Mawokota in Mpigi district.
Lt. Kisitu died just seven years ago leaving chunks of land and other properties to cater for his children after losing over 300 herds of cattle and banana plantations during a guerilla war which brought the ruling government into power.
It’s unfortunate that the children of such a war hero are now homeless as the family property is forcefully grabbed by those who claim to be untouchable soldiers, It’s sad!
Lt. Kisitu’s children have cried out to President Museveni for help asking the Head of State to prevail against land grabbers who are posturing with what they call a fake special land title to grab their father’s land without even a court order.
Family is suspecting Kenneth Mayambala, John Kaweesa, Mark Mivule, Alice Terukanya and Harriet Nalubwama the former Administrators of their father’s estate to be in bed with these land grabbers.
In fact when our senior editor called Kenneth Mayambala on the way forward after the grabbing of this land, he lied that he was in a meeting and promised to call back, which he didn’t do.

When we called John Kaweesa, he arrogantly ordered our editor to back-off as if this clique was hiding something from Kisitu’s other children. Is there a conspiracy with the land grabbers?

For starters, Letters of Administration that had been granted to Kenneth Mayambala, John Kaweesa, Mark Mivule, Harriet Nalubwama and Alice Terukanya were revoked by court after Kisitu’s children cited fraud in the way Mayambala and his colleagues handled their father’s estate. We shall come back to this later! 
In their petition to the Commander Armed Forces, the heir Ronald Magunda says, the gang which attacked them cut trees, slaughtered Lt. Kisitu’s goats, roasted meat and there after started fencing off this land claiming to be the rightful owners. This happened in the night of Sunday October 2, 2022. 
The Petition is signed by the three widows; Ms. Sarah Nanziri Kisitu (Kiwumu), Ms. Betty Nakayita Kisitu (Bulaga) and Betty Nakato Kisitu (Lwankonge-Ssingo) and their children; Ronald Magunda, David Mayanja, Milly Nakamya, Immaculate Nangendo Meeme, Juliet Nantaba, Henry Ssebwalunnyo, Ronald Kalumba, Robert Nagaya, Denis Kaggwa, Samuel Kalasana, Jimmy Kizza, Derrick Muwanga, Joyce Namusoke, Harriet Nanteza, and the two last borns Brian Saabwe and Phiona Teruggwa who are still students but lack school fees!

IN THE FATEFUL NIGHT
Our investigations team was told, these men who were numbering up to 50, armed with machetes and guns, raided this place and started destroying whatever was found on the land, beating up whoever was present and ordering them to leave saying, “We are soldiers, we are taking over this land, better run for your dear lives”.
When we reached David Mayanja, one of late Kisitu’s son he told us, “Part of it was farm land and we had over 40 cows and goats left by our dad. They chased away the herdsman and animals got scattered.”

Mayanja rushed to Buyala Police post to report the matter and on visiting the locus, OC Buyala found the panga welding men threatening to kill Kisitu’s widow Betty Nakayita and some of Lt. Kisitu’s children; Samuel Kalasana, Juliet Nantaba, Immaculate Nangendo Meeme, Betty Nakayita, Ronald Kalumba, Henry Ssebwannyo, Dennis Kaggwa and Brian Ssaabwe who had come to stop the illegal evictions.

Presenting a copy of the said land title, children told Police that their late father bought this land in 2000, about 22 years ago, from Bakaluba Matayo.
On his demise in September 25, 2015, the land title was on October 29, 2018 transferred from Kisitu Ephraim Ssalongo to Kenneth Mayambala, John Kaweesa, Mark Mivule, Alice Terukanya and Harriet Nalubwama who were the Administrators then of the estate of late Kisitu Ephraim Ssalongo. 
Kisitu’s children appointed the five as Administrators on March 20, 2017, two years after the death of their father.
This leading investigative News Website has learnt that, Kisitu’s children have never made any transaction on their father’s land.
So they wanted police to arrest the attackers who had raided and evicted them from their father’s land. The attackers vowed that no one on earth can make them to leave. 
We are reliably Informed, when OC Buyala called his bosses for re-enforcement, he was instead directed to return to his office and leave because matters of that land were above him. As soon as OC Buyala had left, other police officers said to be attached to Nakirebe police post arrived and instead of arresting the attackers, Kisitu’s son, Ronald Kalumba was handcuffed. A motorcycle owned by Dennis Kaggwa, another of Kisitu’s son was also confistated by these police men leaving the attackers at large. 
This prompted the family to report the matter to CID Headquarters Kibuli, and the Commandant Land protection unit Mr. Olara Johnson directed OC CID Mpigi to investigate the matter. Children however suspect that there is foul play at Mpigi Police since some officers are playing hide and seek!
They had to first petition the office of NRA bush war veterans that RDC Mpigi Sempala Kigozi intervened.

RDC SEMPALA KIGOZI CALLS FOR A MEETING
On October 11, 2022, Mpigi District RDC Sempala Kigozi wrote to The Chairperson LC 1 Buyala Village and to other 11 children of the late Kisitu over land dispute on Kibanja at Buyala Namwabula Village, Kirengete Subcounty. 
In his letter which was copied to DISO Mpigi, DPC Mpigi, Police Land Protection Unit, The LC III Chairperson Kiringente Subcounty and to the Area GISO, RDC Sempala Kigozi said his office received a petition from David Mayanja and Jimmy Kizza on behalf of other family members of late Ephraim Kisitu that a one Willy Ssenabulya claims ownership of their land and that title was changed from the former Administrators (Kenneth Mayambala, John Kaweesa, Mark Mivule, Harriet Nalubwama and Alice Terukanya).
RDC Kigozi’s letter calling for a meeting read, “The purpose of this communication therefore is to invite you for fact finding and mediation meeting with all relevant documents scheduled to take place at my office on October 21, 2022 at 10:00am. By copy of this letter, all activities like sub-divisions, transactions and new developments have been halted with immediate effect until this matter has been resolved to the core.” 
However, the meeting didn’t take place as planned,  RDC Kigozi decided to visit the locus and was so much saddened with what he found on ground!

Kigozi stopped all the activities until investigations are done. A one Bosco was arrested on site and trucks carrying wood from cut trees were apprehended.
A case of Criminal Trespass and Malicious damage on file number REF: SD 50/03/10/22 was opened up against Willy Ssennabulya, Nakiku and Bosco. The three are accused by David Mayanja, on behalf of Lt. Kisitu’s Children.
Shockingly,  a police officer by the names of Bazibu who worked on the file, later informed Kisitu’s family how State had closed the file of a one Bosco who was arrested by RDC and truck given back to the owner!

Until today, attackers are still at large, they are still cutting trees, and the rightful owners can’t access their land!  
We are reliably informed, children have petitioned President Museveni, Speaker Parliament of Uganda and the State House Anti Corruption Unit among others.

ABOUT LATE LT. EPHRAIM KISITU SSALONGO & HIS TIES WITH MUSEVENI
Born on January 25, 1935, Kisitu had 38 Children and four wives.
According to an introductory letter written on June 5, 1986 by Gen. Elly Tumwine then Army Commander NRA, Lt. Kisitu was a leading member of NRA/M and a senior political leader.

Just last year, President Museveni and Commander In Chief of the Armed Forces appointed him to the rank of Lieutenant.
“I, reposing a special trust and confidence in your loyalty, courage and good conduct do by these present, constitute and appoint you to be an Officer on regular service in the Defence Forces of Uganda.” Reads August 15, 2021 Warrant of Appointment, Regular Commission in the 59th year of Uganda’s Independence.

The President of Uganda said, “RO/16518 Ephraim Kisitu Ssalongo you are therefore, carefully and diligently to discharge your duty as such in the rank of Lieutenant or in such other rank as the Ugandan Peoples’ Defence Forces (UPDF) may from time to time, hereafter be pleased to promote or appoint you to and you are in accordance with the Uganda Peoples’ Defence Forces Act 2005 and regulations made therein and in such manner on such occasions as may be prescribed by the Uganda Peoples’ Defence Forces Council; to exercise in a well-disciplined manner, duties in command of such officers, men and women as may be placed under your orders from time to time and use your best endeavors to keep them in good order and discpline; and I do hereby Command them to obey you as their Superior Officer and you to observe and follow such Orders and Directives as from time to time you shall receive from the Uganda Peoples’ Defence Forces Council or any of your Superior Officers according to Rules and Discipline of War, in Pursuance of the Trust hereby reposed in you.”

WHEN MAYAMBALA & 4 OTHERS WERE GRANTED LETTERS OF ADMINISTRATION 
On March 20, 2017 Her Worship Jane F.B Kiggundu, judge of the High Court of Uganda, made known that Letters of Administration of the property and credits of the estate of the late Ephraim Kisitu Ssalongo, formerly a resident of Bbira, Bulaga, Wakiso district were granted to Kenneth Mayambala, John Kaweesa, Mark Mivule, Harriet Nalubwama and Alice Terukanya. The five are children of the late Kisitu.
The above children were mandated to administer the estate of their late father, and make a fully inventory of the said properties and credits and exhibit the same in this court within six months from the date of the grant or within such further time as court may from time to time appoint and also to render to this court a true account of the said property and credits within one year from the same date or within such further to, as court may from time to time appoint.

COMPLAINT AGAINST ADMINISTRATORS
Just after two years, on April 24, 2019, The Registrar, High Court, Family Division in Makindye Kampala received a complaint from the family of fallen Lt. Ephraim Kisitu Ssalongo led by Juliet Nantaba, Derrick Muwanga, Dennis Kaggwa, Immaculate Meeme Nangendo and 13 others against the Administrators in Administration Cause No. 1782 of 2016, Estate of the late Kisitu Ephraim Ssalongo. 
For starters, Lt. Kisitu survived with 38 (Thirty Eight) Children and of these, children selected among themselves five to be granted with the Letters of Administration for the Estate of Late Kisitu Ephraim Ssalongo. 
The five selected were; Kenneth Mayambala (Chairman), John Kaweesa, Mark Mivule, Harriet Nalubwama and Alice Terukanya.

However, Kisitu’s family informed The Registrar High Court how they had reservations about the Administrators with the way they conduct their business in regard to the following;
● The Administrators were abusing their powers by selling off some of the Estate’s property without the knowledge and consent of the beneficiaries.
● The Administrators had never convened any family meeting concerning the Estate of the late Ephraim Kisitu Ssalongo.
● There was no accountability to the beneficiaries and children of the deceased.
● The Administrators were not taking care of the sick children of the late Kisitu Ephraim Ssalongo.
● Non-declaration of the income and income generating assets of the Estate.
● Failed to file an inventory in court.
“Since we are many, we need more transparency as a family to have order and calmness in the family. For the above reasons, we request for your intervention in our matter and call all the parties; the Administrators and all the beneficiaries to the Estate of the late Ephraim Kisitu Ssalongo, for mediation and further directions so as the Administrators do not overstep their authority.” Reads the letter from the children of late Kisitu to the Registrar High Court.
They believed that the conduct of the Administrators is wanting and might lead to serious problems.
The letter was signed by Juliet Nantaba, Derrick Muwanga, Dennis Kaggwa, Immaculate Meeme Nangendo and other children of late Ephraim Kisitu.

‘DEAL WITH MAYAMBALA, KAWEESA, MIVULE, NALUBWAMA & TERUKANYA AT YOUR OWN RISK’, COURT THROWS THEM OUT
On February 25, 2022, Ms Jacquelyn Mazinga Ssemakula, Assistant Administrator General/Public Trustees wrote to; Kenneth Mayambala, John Kaweesa, Mark Mivule, Harriet Nalubwama and Alice Terukanya communicating to them the court decision revoking their Letters of Administration.
“This office has been served with a judgement and Decree in respect of Civil Suit No.149/2019 Wherefore, your Letters of Administration obtained in 2017 vide High Court Administration cause No. 1782 of 2017 were revoked.” Reads letter from Administrator General.
Letter says, “As appointed Administrators then, you were among others to distribute the estate, make an account and secure the same. Suffice to note, since the said letters of Administration have since been revoked, it is prudent that you do surrender the following to this office for safety custody:
● Land title to Mawokota Block 107 Plot 2 Land at Namwambula
● Land title to Mawokota Block 107 Plot 6 measuring 33 acres 
● Land title to Busiro Block 306 plot 3168 measuring 0.591 hectares 
● Busiro Block 314 plot 1306 Land at Buloba measuring 0.5977 hectares 
● Busiro Block 314 plot 1307 Land at Buloba measuring 0.858 hectares
● Busiro Block 306 Plot 4532 Land at Bbira measuring 0.209 hectares 
“Further still, you are directed to avail us with an account and inventory of the estate to enable us establish the residues and the un-administered effects before we issue a Certificate of No Objection. All the above should be submitted to this office not later than March 2, 2022 at 11am.” Reads the letter which was copied to the Beneficiaries, Kyomukama & Co. Advocates, Anguria, Augon & Co. Advocates.
Before that, Ms Mazinga Jacquelyn Ssemakula the Assistant Administrator General /Public Trustees, had on February 3, 2022 written the widows and all adult Children, Sarah Nanziri, Betty Kisitu Nakayita, Justine Nassali Namirembe and the family lawyers, telling them how there was need for appointment of new Administrators.
Letter was inviting them for a meeting at the office of the Administrator General, Georgian House, Kampala, on February 9, 2022.
This followed the Revocation of Letters of Administration granted to Kenneth Mayambala, John Kaweesa, Mark Mivule, Harriet Nalubwama and Alice Terukanya.
The former Administrators did not attend the Administrator General’s meeting neither returning whatever she asked from them.

HERE ARE THE NEW ADMINISTRATORS
Giving them a certificate of No objection, Mr. Charles Kasibayo the Administrator General letter on Mach 16, 2022 to the newly appointed Administrators; Juliet Nantaba, Immaculate Nangendo, Derrick Muwanga, Denis Kaggwa, David Mayanja said, “Take notice that the Administrator General of Uganda does not object to your application for a grant of Letters of Administration/Letters of Probate in respect of the estate of Kisitu Ephraim Ssalongo, the deceased.
So whoever deals with the former Administration on behalf of the estate of late Kisitu Ephraim Ssalongo does so at his or her own peril!

In our Part II of this story, we dig deeper into the land deal of other 33 acres of Kisitu’s land involving Kampala businessman John Bosco Muwonge and a Kampala lawyer where former Administrators bagged billions to sale land to this businessmen without the consent of the children. Businessman is already worried of making huge losses as Kisitu’s children insist, he bought air.

For views/comments on this story, send us an email at newseditor.info@gmail.com 

The post LAND SAGA: GUN MEN EVICT TOP NRA BUSH WAR HERO LT. KISITU EPHRAIM’S CHILDREN, RUN TO MUSEVENI appeared first on News Editor.

NEWS EDITOR MEDIA

ON TUESDAY evening, Security operatives working with Uganda Police arrested two senior fraudsters in Kampala over a false and defamatory story they published on social media against Ham Towers Makerere with an intention of sabotaging, blackmailing and extorting money from its owner, tycoon Hamis Kiggundu.
The harvested fraudsters Javira Sebwami who is the founder of UGSTANDARD.COM and Remmy Asiteza of the DAILYEXPRESS.CO.UG were arrested with an exhibit of UGX 4M they had extorted from tycoon Kiggundu as a ransom to put down a false and malicious story about his mega business mall (Ham Towers), located opposite Makerere University main entrance.

According to that false story published on social media, the authors put in print lies about how traders operating at Ham Towers had called upon the National Building Review Board to immediately carry out structural assessment of this multi million Mall, for fear that their lives are in danger. 
In a story which didn’t quote any trader saying so, Sebwami Javiira and his partner in crime put words in the mouth of Ham tenants that their concern was about the multiple compression failure of reinforced concrete columns of the entire structure.
The false article said, traders now fear for their lives and wanted Kampala Capital City Authority and National Building Review Board to urgently intervene and make an assessment of this building! 
On this building is a Super Market, offices, training institutions and other mega businesses which have been operating for years without any fears!
Successful businessman Hamis Kiggundu who owns a number of buildings and business malls in Kampala said Sebwami Javira, Remmy Asiteza and others still on the run, were simply spreading hate and negativity against him with a motive of tainting and sabotaging his businesses.
“Their story holds no substance, there is no complaint and no evidence. It isn’t backed by any proof. Just mere blackmail and sabotage. There is no need for panic, we will get them.” Tycoon Hamis Kiggundu who is a lawyer by profession revealed to this investigative news website, just a few hours before the two fraudsters were netted.

HOW PLOT TO ARREST THEM WAS HACKED 
Before having the two arrested, they were first contacted by Mr. Kiggundu’s aide who advised them to pull down that false story about Ham Towers and its owner from their websites since it had no facts apart from blackmailing and tainting his name and business.
The two vowed not to pull down the story until Hamis Kiggundu remits UGX 4M in cash. They threatened and coerced Hamis Kiggundu into giving them money or they hit his business empire, more.
“It’s true the story has no facts but putting it off goes at a cost. You know how economy is biting these days. Deal is, give us UGX 4M and story will be removed from our websites instantly.” Said one of the two netted conmen. Little did they know that the whole conversation was being recorded! 

Ham’s aide told them how they can’t pay for such a defamatory story. However the two kept on boasting that if Hamis wants the story off website, let him cough that ransom or he should wait for a tough part II of the story!
On being briefed by his aide about the two guys’ demands , Businessman Kiggundu approached Police who with the aid of other senior security operatives plotted the arrest of these fraudsters.
According to the plot, Kiggundu’s aide had to call the two guys showing how his boss was ready to comply with their demand.
They identified a meeting venue to receive the ransom so that Javira and Asiteza proceed to remove the story.
Security operatives were deployed around the venue and by the time Ham’s aide brought UGX 4M and handed this cash to the two conmen, the place was already marked a ‘crime scene’.
“Upon receipt of UGX 4M, Javira Sebwami and Remmy Asiteza were arrested and handcuffed.” Confirmed Hamis Kiggundu’s aide.
A case number SD REF53/29/8/2022 vide Kira Police Station was opened against the two.
At Kira Police, the two pleaded for forgiveness saying it is the economic situation which forced them to spread lies against businessman Kiggundu.

In an interview with business mogul Hamis Kiggundu, he told us how others should learn from these two arrested conmen that they their is a price paid in blackmailing,  defaming and spreading malice against one’s business.

For views/comments on this story, send us an email on news editor.info@gmail.com 

The post HOW OPERATIVES NETTED TWO TOP CITY CONMEN IN A UGX 4M EXTORTION SCAM FROM TYCOON HAMIS KIGGUNDU OVER A FALSE HAM TOWER STORY appeared first on News Editor.

STORY BY:
MOSES MUGALULA
KAMPALA

KAMPALA City Lord mayor Counsel Erias Lukwago has finally spoken out about what transpired in yesterday’s aborted Frontline show at NBS TV when Executive Director Media Centre Mr. Ofwono Opondo who doubles as Government spokesperson attacked him and allegedly vowed to shoot FDC Vice President Buganda region.
A statement released by Lord mayor Lukwago says, last night, he happened to be a Panelist at the NBS TV Talkshow that runs from 10:00pm to midnight. 
“The debate was about the sham Soroti City East Member of Parliament By-election. Midway the debate, hell broke loose when the Government Spokesperson, who is a regular Panelist (Frontliner) on the show, ran berserk and started throwing tantrums.” Reads Lukwago’s statement.
Lord mayor said, out of the blue, Ofwono Opondo sprung up, charged at him and threatened to evict him from the studios. 
Opondo pushed his hand into the pocket and around his waist, in a manner that suggested he wanted to draw a pistol at him.
“I dared him to shoot at me. He instead pounced on my neck and attempted to strangle me. I did not fight back but instead struggled to wriggle out of his grip. He then punched me in the chest and grabbed both collars of my jacket while huffing and puffing like a cobra.” Reads Lukwago’s statement.
He says, the Moderator, Charles Mwangushya moved in to restrain him but to no avail. He was joined by a Co-Panelist, the Hon. Winnie Kiiza, former Leader of Opposition but the now wild Opondo would not relent as he continued to maul Lukwago, while battering and kicking him in the stomach.
Being a civilized and mindful of the law of unintended consequences, which could turn out to be catastrophic, Lord mayor chose not to engage in a fist fight. He instead concentrated on shielding my face with both palms.
It was at this moment that another Panelist, the Hon. Chris Baryomunsi, Minister for ICT and National Guidance, who had all along been witnessing the melodrama, joined the duo to prevail over a rampaging Opondo.
The Talkshow ended prematurely and Opondo was shouting at the top of his voice that he was going to finish Lord mayor off in the corridors of NBS TV or outside the building. He made frantic calls to people Lord mayor did not understand, requesting for ‘reinforcement.’
The DPC, Kira Road Police Station, Ssebuyungo, together with the Commander Operations, Aden Muzawula, entered with several police personnel. They made arrangements with Hon. Baryomunsi to escort Lukwago back home.
Today morning, Lukwago went to Kira Road Police Station and opened up a Criminal Case before the O.C C.I.D and other Police Officers. He also moved to NBS and met with the Management to secure the Closed Circuit Television (CCTV) footage of the said ugly scene but his efforts are yet to yield positive results. 
“In my language, we have an old adage that; “Olaba nkaabira mubikire, naye ate ankutukidde mungalo…!!! I will stop at nothing in search for Justice. In addition to the aforesaid criminal proceedings, civil action will also be pursued in Courts of Law in an effort to deal with impunity in our country.” Reads Statement signed by Lord mayor Ericsson Lukwago.
In another statement released by Desire Derekford Mugumisa, Head of Corporate Affairs at NBS,  management condemned this unfortunate incident.
“The incident violates our Editorial policy and the Minimum Broadcasting Standards. We once again apologize to our esteemed viewers for having had to experience that content and ending the show prematurely.” Reads Statement from NBS boss.
He said, their teams are further investigating the matter and we shall take action to find amicable resolution from the findings.

For views/comments on this story, WhatsApp our editor on 0772523039

The post ‘MY SHOCKING STORY @ NBS TV FRONTLINE SHOW & HOW OFWONO OPONDO VOWED TO KILL ME’, CITY LORD MAYOR LUKWAGO SPEAKS OUT appeared first on News Editor.

NEWS EDITOR MEDIA

LAWYERS of Mugarura, Kwarisiima & Co. Advocates acting on the instructions of a one Namatovu Angella whose money was withdrawn from her bank account without her consent has written to Equity Bank Uganda Ltd a demand notice cum notice of intention to sue.
In a two pager demand notice received by Equity Bank Uganda, lawyers say, “Our instructions are, to demand as we hereby do, that you refund our client’s money, to a tune of Ug. Shs. 5,126,421/= ( Five million one hundred twenty six thousand four hundred twenty one shillings), pay our client in special and general damages amounting to Ug. Shs. 5,000,000/= (Five million shillings) as well as our legal fees of Ug. Shs. 2,000,000/= (Two Million Shillings) and provide a public apology to our client.”

“Should you fail to heed to our demand within 7 days from of the date of receipt of this letter, we shall have no other choice but to institute civil proceedings against you.” Reads a demand notice cum intention to sue.
Lawyers have notified Equity Bank Uganda that, “It is well within your knowledge that on the 18th June and 20th June 2022, our client’s bank account with you, vide acc. No. 1010100909543 was debited in the sums of Ug. Shs. 2,330,192/= (two million three hundred thirty thousand one hundred ninety one shillings), Ug. Shs. 2, 330,199/= (two million three hundred thirty thousand one hundred ninety one shillings) and Ug. Shs. 466,039/= (Four hundred sixty six thousand thirty nine shillings) respectively.”
Lawyers have told Equity Bank that, their client upon discovery of loss of her money from her account, she contacted her bank for rectification of the issue or a solution, wherein they informed her that the three transactions through which the money was deducted were conducted online using her debit card number 4860xxxx9407 via a “Zazu Africa limited” (merchant)website.
“Our client has never signed up to use her bank account for online transactions or any online banking service.” Lawyers reminded Equity Bank Uganda.
They said, “You further informed our client that she had authorised those transactions through her purported telephone number “267 788 286 750″. That has never been our client’s telephone number. (A copy of the response is attached for your ease of response).”
Lawyers say, the loss of their client’s funds through unsolicited online transactions well aware that she had never registered her account for any online transactions is based on Equity Bank.
This coupled with unclear answers in handling the issue, lawyers say, has shown a high level of negligence by Equity Bank in handling their client’s funds, as well as breach of the banker-customer relationship.
“Your actions also amount to fraud, as you have unreasonably deprived our client of her money banked with your entity for which we hold you liable.” Reads the demand notice cum intention to sue.
On several occasions, lawyers have revealed that their client has written to Equity Bank and made various phone calls to try and have her money refunded on her account, but this bank has remained adamant to do the same and they have ignored Namatovu Angella’s phone calls.
“Our client has made various losses and has found it hard providing medical care for her sick mother who is due to undergo surgery and as a result of your actions, you are liable to damages.” Reads a demand notice to Equity Bank signed by Mugarura, Kwarisiima & Co. Advocates.
Yesterday, Equity Bank Uganda released a statement of defence saying their client (Namatovu Angella) reported to them how a suspected fraudulent withdraw of funds from my account between June 18th to 20th, 2022 amounting to 5.1M in 3 installments, ”using her card”. 
Bank said, “Card transactions approval is made using card details and a one time password which is sent to registered mobile phone.”
However, Namatovu rubbished Equity Bank’s defence. In her statement released today and shared on social media, Namatovu Angella said, Equity Bank Uganda should stop telling lies and instead refund her money so that she can foot medical bills for her sick mum.
Namatovu’s statement reads, “Dear members of Public, yesterday I read lies in a statement released by Equity Bank Uganda in reference to fraud in their bank i complained about when money was withdrawn from my account without my consent on June 18th and 20th, 2022.”
Namatovu said, after public rants about Equity Bank Uganda for the increasing fraud on clients’ accounts where a number of people have complained that their money is being stolen from their accounts, her case being the most recent, Equity Bank thought by telling lies in a statement released, it will help to clear their image. 
“Their image can only be cleared by vomiting my money so that I can take my sick mum for the scheduled operation. They showed a degree of careless, how can money be stolen from a client’s account who entrusted you with its safety?” She asked.
Namatovu denies ever reporting to Equity Bank Uganda that money was withdrawn from her bank account using her ATM card.
“I clearly told them, I am always in possession of my card and no one, be it my sick mum knows where I keep it or even my pin number. The complaint I logged to Equity Bank Uganda, to Bank of Uganda, to CID Headquarters, to KMP and other security organs was very clear. My money which I kept with Equity Bank was withdrawn under unclear circumstances which the Bank MUST explain without hiding their heads under the sand.” Reads her statement in response to the statement released by Equity Bank, yesterday.
She said, Equity bank told her how someone in Zambia bought electrical goods from Zazu Africa limited using her card, calling it total madness because she has never travelled outside the country.
“So how did someone in sijui Zambia hoodwink Equity Bank and they give him or her client’s money? That put aside, who is stealing customers’ money in Equity Bank from their clients’ accounts? How come, such cases are very common with Equity Bank alone? She asked.

Referring to recent media reports about a number of Equity Bank clients whose money was deducted from their accounts without their consent, Namatovu said, It ended when Equity Bank had vomited the money.
“Therefore, the only thing Equity Bank has to do to be out of this circus, is by putting back my money and also, work on the security of clients’ money. Let them stop their foul play.” Namatovu’s statement reads.   
She asked Equity bank to stop playing with her mother’s life using their ping pong statements. 
“And call upon the public to disregard statement released by Equity Bank Uganda, for it is based on nothing but lies. I will continue demanding for justice using all legal methods and I thank the general public for standing with me. Today it’s me, tomorrow they will chop your money, similar way.” Namatovu said in her trending statement exposing fraud in Equity Bank Uganda.

Read also: CID H’QUATER OVERWHELMED BY COMPLAINTS FROM EQUITY BANK CLIENTS OVER FRAUD IN THE BANK AS A GAL WHOSE MONEY WAS STOLEN CONTINUES TO BITE

For views/comments on this story, send us an email to newseditor.info@gmail.com

The post EQUITY BANK SCANDAL DEEPENS, GAL’S LAWYERS WRITE TO BANK: ‘YOUR ACTIONS AMOUNTS TO FRAUD, REFUND OUR CLIENT’S MONEY & PAY FOR DAMAGES OR FACE COURT’ appeared first on News Editor.

NEWS EDITOR MEDIA

WHISTLE BLOWERS from the National Media-Team Uganda (NAMETU), an organisation fully registered, with objectives among others, to fight corruption have petitioned Economic Montoring Minister Hon. Peter Ogwang about civil servants stealing money from local government districts which includes Luweero, Mukono, Kampala, Wakiso and Mpigi.
In their letter dated June 29, 2022 which was copied to The Anti Corruption Unit of State House, to the Local government minister, Minister for finance, Minister for works of Housing, RDCs and CAOs, NAMETU told minister Egwang that the big source of Revenue collection in the above districts is from buildings and constructions but money is stolen and eaten through corruption and embezzlement.
“So many houses have been built, petrol stations, factories, private schools, storage houses, Residentials, apartments and commercial houses in the districts of Luweero, Kampala, Wakiso, Mpigi and Mukono. Each and every construction has been paying effectively. Surprisingly, we have evidence that very little money is remitted to the accounts of the districts or at the subcounty.” Reads petiton to the economic monitoring minister signed by Mr. Moses Kaziba, NAMETU Director.
NAMETU says, physical planers, healthy inspectors, parish chiefs and subcounty chiefs are the ones who collect the money on the ground and it’s ends up in their pockets. 
“The collected money is stolen and eaten during broad day light. A lot of buildings which have been constructed, government is not benefitting from them. Something must be done to save this situation.” NAMETU told minister Ogwang.
They said, they have a lot of information about this and we are ready to give it to the minister. 
“We need services, people are paying money but it is stolen by these people. We are worried, the same thing will happen to parish development model, a newly unveiled government project to fight poverty.” Says NAMETU.
Asking the minister to urgently intervene, NAMETU recommended the following;
● Collecting money from buildings should be changed from manual to direct banking 
● Proper assessment of plans should be made by technical people not parish chiefs.
● Building Regulation should be followed. Seriously, to avoid slums, construction in the road reserves in wet lands etc.
● Regular supervision should be put in place
For starters, National Media Team-Uganda main objectives are; 
• To popularise Government programs through media
• To act as whistle blowers for any bad activities with tarnish the good image of government 
• To counter propaganda and false information spread by enemies of the government 
• Figating and campaigning agsinst corruption and embezzlement of public funds
• Effective monitoring of Government programs 
• Fighting against Land grabbing and evections
It is in this spirit that NAMETU has petitioned Minister Ogwang over government officials who swindle revenue collections.

For views/comments on this story, WhatsApp editor onot 0772523039

The post NATIONAL MEDIA TEAM-UGANDA WHISTLE BLOWERS NAME TOP THIEVES IN GOVERNMENT WHO SWINDLE REVENUE, GIVE FOUR WAYS TO ARREST THEM appeared first on News Editor.

● Ms. Angella Namatovu’s family had fundraised for sick mum to be rushed to Nairobi for operation
● She was shocked to reach Equity Bank and found her money stolen
● Bank bosses panic, involve MTN as client Presses Bank to vomit her money or be sued for fraud
● Recently millions of money was mysteriously withdrawn from accounts of several Equity bank customers

NEWS EDITOR MEDIA

EQUITY Bank Uganda is in hot soup again following disappearance of their Client’s money, a one Angella Namatovu from her Bank account without her consent!
With her family, Namatovu a councilor in Kajjansi town council, Wakiso district has been fundraising for their bedridden mum Ms. Teddy Tusiime who got an accident in February this year! On raising the needed money (about UGX 16M), they planned to fly her to Nairobi for an operation yesterday, Thursday.

Namatovu was shocked when she reached Equity Bank, Market Street Branch Nakasero in Kampala to withdraw money and have her mum flown to Nairobi for specialised treatment, only to find that their hard earned money totalling UGX 5,126, 421 had been withdrawn from her bank account no. 1010100909543 on June 18th and 20th 2022, without her consent! 
A case like that of Namatovu Angella is not new in Equity bank. Recently the management of Equity Bank Uganda was engaged in back-and-forth meetings to resolve several incidents where millions of money was mysteriously withdrawn from accounts of several customers.
According to media reports, 11 customers accused Equity Bank Uganda of not being helpful after their money went missing from their accounts. Its mobile banking service named Eazzy Banking, customers say is prone to hackers.

ANGELLA NAMATOVU’S STORY
“Today has been the most stressful day i have had this year. I have an account with Equity Bank from 2011 to date and I have been saving with them for quite some time but today’s morning i went to town at Equity Bank Energy Center (Market Street) branch and i was shocked on finding out my money was stolen.” Reads Councilor Angella Namatovu’s Facebook post.
She requested for a mini statement and it showed there have been withdraw transactions without her consent.
Her post reads, “When i tried to talk to Equity bank officials at Energy Centre branch, they seemed to have no knowledge about everything. I was told to go to the Operations Manager. When i explained everything that had happened to her, the only reply was i should wait for 45 days my money shall be put back to the account, the other issue she raised was that someone used the account to order for things through online transactions.”

Namatovu was not satisfied with this Equity Bank lady’s explanation because according to her, no one has access to her ATM card. Trying to ask of who, where and how the transactions took place, Equity Bank officials seemed not ready to reveal.
“So Equity Bank can’t trace who carried transactions using my bank account. Isn’t this total fraud? Someone should come to my rescue but these schemers want to spoil my plans of taking my mother for specialised medication.” Reads Namatovu’s post adding that, “I am very disappointed and with Equity bank no one is safe with them please check  your accounts.” The public on reading the post on Angella Namatovu’s Facebook page about disputed withdraw of her money on her account in Equity Bank, some faulted her for banking with Equity, a bank they allege to have issues with clients’ money.
Whereas others demanded that Bank of Uganda and Criminal investigations Department bring Equity bank to book and be invesitigated for cases in regard to clients’ complaints about how their money disappears from their bank accounts and the managers act less concerned.
Although Equity Bank has asked Namatovu to be patient as they investigate this matter, public thinks this bank is just buying time, that it is exactly the same story they have been giving to other clients with  similar cases.
While responding to Namatovu’s facebook post, Equity Bank Uganda wrote, “Hello Angel, thank you for writing to us. We are so sorry to hear about this. We would like to know more about it and follow up on your dispute filed at the branch. Please inbox us your contact details so we can engage on call and support further. Waiting to hear from you.”
However Namatovu replied,  “I was at the bank yesterday and they said i will get back the money with in 45 days and now again the operations manager Energy center when i went back today to file my complaint arrogantly bragged saying I should forget about that money because they are not responsible for the safety of my money.”
This annoyed the public that chose to rant against and curse Equity Bank.

HOW PUBLIC HAS REACTED AGAINST EQUITY BANK 
Tendo Kristen: If they didn’t have any knowledge about disappearing money, they would definitely dig up to see where the problem is, but since they are beating around the bush, they really know why and how your money disappeared.
Kamugira Robert: The truth is, that bank has issues with their system.
Nyachwo Brenda : You have to go to police. This happened to my friend last year. UGX 15 million went missing after saving for two years. You are not the first person but just involve the police. She got it back after one month but if it wasn’t for police and showing up at Equity unannounced, may be she would have given up. Don’t wait for 45 days, that’s too long. The money is used by those bankers themselves and they pretend like they don’t know. This is exactly her story, someone buying airtime from her money, getting a loan and purchasing things online. Even after they deposited, before she withdrew all, 700k again disappeared just like that.
Racheal Abigail Kyalisima : Equity bank has had too many of these complaints!!
Kizza Gloria Rachael : Dont wait for the 45 days. Nothing will be done. Go and camp at the Equity bank until they put back your money. With financial institutions, if you dont persist, you will be robbed. Carefully cause commotion until they listen to you.
Mukisa Kabigumiremu Francisco : You need to make a statement with police as well as also getting a serious lawyer as early as possible because you never know, you may find even you are not the only person affected. May be they loaned your money to someone that is why you are being told to wait for 45 days may be that is when they are expecting to raise something to clear you up.
Ssemwogerere Mukiibi : Actually it also happened to me, my account had some saving on it, but after 3 years, my account couldn’t be traced and I never closed it. I traveled for almost 6 months without enough explanation and I gave up.
Deo Gracious Shar Ketyjo: Iam surprised that Ugandans still trust local Financial institutions, in this Country money should be kept in Apartments.
Evan Arinaitwe: They have killed my trust
Andrew Steven Mwalye: Equity Bank Uganda come here and explain this fraud you cause to customers. You have never stopped your habits but soon we are forcing you back where you came from.
Nakitende Winnie Yiga : Oh God! A close relative warned me still with this bank. By the time she checked they had chopped UGX 1.5 in a month! Thought it was a joke but truth is I also fear making anymore deposits. They tosed her when she asked for a statement until she gave up.
Namugenyi Christine Kirabo : Am very disappointed with Equity Bank Uganda. I think this is one of the reasons as to why they force us to open accounts with them. Let’s pray for you sister(Namatovu) that they refund your money otherwise we shall get disgusted with the Bank.
Barbra Namakula: But Equity bank, sincerely how can you not able to tell how someone lost their money from their accounts, like how, you owe her an explanation before anything else. How did this money get off her account??? Please be transparent on this.

HOW ANGELLA NAMATOVU’S MONEY GOT MISSING FROM HER EQUITY BANK ACCOUNT
According to her complaint dated June 23, 2022 to the Operations Manager Equity Bank Market Street Branch about loss of her money from her Equity Bank account 1010100909543 totalling to UGX 5,126, 421, she said, “While opening up an account with your bank, you promised me safety of my money which made me sign all the relevant banking documents. I have always saved money on my account not until yesterday June 22, 2022 when i went to Equity Bank Energy Centre Market Street Branch to withdraw money so that I facilitate my mother’s operation in hospital.”
Ms. Namatovu said, she was shocked to find that money has been withdrawn from her bank account via VISA-ZazuAF without her consent. 
“I have never heard about VISA-ZazuAF and while opening this bank account, I didn’t apply for it. On the same note, while opening this account I requested for messages in case of any deposit and withdraws from my account. And I have always received them. But how comes that in this case, I did not receive any messages for the withdraws of this money?” Angella Namatovu asked Equity Bank Operations Manager.

In line with the above, her account was supposed to possess a total of UGX 16,386,473. However, on June 18, 2022, at around 4pm, a total of UGX 2,330,191 was withdrawn and also on June 20, 2022 at around 10am another UGX 2,330,091 and also UGX 466,039 was withdrawn via VISA-ZazuAF.
She insists, has never exposed her ATM to any one nor ever used her ATM Visa card.
“I signed that i cant withdraw beyond  UGX 500,000 a day using my ATM. How come that such monies have been withdraw on single days? I request that all my money totalling up to UGX 16,386,473 be put back on my account to help me meet hospital bills for my mother’s operation.” Reads Angella Namatovu’s complaint wbich was copied to: Dr. Michael Atingi-Ego (Acting Governor Bank of Uganda), Director Financial Institutions Bank of Uganda, Director Deposit Protection Fund of Uganda, The Commander Kampala Metropolitan Police, CPS and her lawyers of M/s Mutungi & Co. Advocates. 

EQUITY BANK’S DEFENCE
In a response to Angella Namatovu dated June 28th 2022 from Equity Bank and signed by Jael Christine Wawulira, Head Customer Experience, over 3 disputed online transactions on account 1010100909543 totalling to UGX 5,126,421, performed on June 18th and 20th of 2022, Bank said it had concluded its preliminary investigations into the matter.
Below is a summary of their key findings regarding the said transactions; 
● The three transactions were conducted online using your debit card number 4860xxxx9407 via Zazu Africa Limited (merchant) website.
● The merchant website is categorized as 3D secure and fully complies with the VISA security protocols. I.e, every transaction is authenticated with the card number, customer verification value (CVV) and transaction One Time Pin (OTP) which is delivered to the card owner’s telephone number.
● Other investigations established that all the three requirements were fulfilled for the transactions to be completed and that every transaction was authenticated with a One Time Pin (OTP).
● Subsequently, to your feedback that you didn’t receive the OTPs and transaction confirmation messages, the Bank contacted your Telecom Service Provider (MTN) who confirmed that the OTPs were delivered to your telephone number 267 788 286 750.

In light of the above findings, the Bank has escalated your complaint to the VISA team for further investigation and asked them to provide further details of the disputed transactions including but not limited to; the type of goods/services that were purchased, the address and telephone number of the beneficiary.
Please note that, this process takes a period of 45 days within which, VISA will respond. VISA is a world wide digital payments company providing transactions between consumers, merchants and banks and other financial institutions.
Considering the above, we request you for your patience until the Bank receives the above information to provide us with a basis for further action.

GAPS IN EQUITY BANK’S DEFENCE
● The telephone number 267 788 286 750 which Bank says MTN confirmed that the OTPs were delivered to, does not belong to Angella Namatovu and it is not a Ugandan phone number. Let Equity Bank and MTN clear the air, who is the owner of that number they sent message to on withdrawing Namatovu’s money.

● In an audio recording,  an MTN Customer care staff first denied ever sending message to Namatovu when money was being withdrawn from her bank account account. In fact she clearly said, “No transaction was made with you account on 18th and 20th June 2022. How come, after Equity engaging MTN, the same telecommunication company make a print out showing messages were sent to Namatovu yet she never received any? Could there be a conspiracy that money on your account can be withdrawn and your telecomunication company does not send you a message to alert you? 
● If such a bank can’t trace who withdraws money from their Client’s bank accounts within a short period and needs almost 2 months,  how safe is peoples’ money?
● Equity Bank in some of their customer care calls to Namatovu said, money was withdrawn using ATM yet in other calls, they said it was an online transaction! When did this bank start operating on guess work?
● At first, Equity Bank customer care told Namatovu, with online transactions you don’t receive messages but later changed statement and said, MTN sent her messages and on reaching there, MTN denied until they were engaged with Equity Bank. Dont you think this is why public is sensing fraud? 
● How authentic is that message you showed Namatovu that its from a website showing the transactions? What if its forged? 
● Equity bank says, the one who withdrew Namatovu’s money was paying Zazu Africa for electrical materials. So the merchant can’t tell where these materials were delivered to for easy investigations? Is this what requires 45 days?
● From public reactions, it seems chopping clients’ money is a growing vice. So this powerful bank can’t trace the culprits? Won’t this kill public trust?

This is a developing story!

Do you have such experience with Equity Bank? Please email our editor on newseditor.info@gmail.com 

The post EQUITY BANK UGANDA IN FRESH SCANDAL OVER MISSING CLIENT’S MONEY: PUBLIC WANTS THIS BANK INVESTIGATED appeared first on News Editor.

NATIONAL Environment and Management Authority (NEMA) through the Environmental Police continues to bite culprits involved in the misuse and abuse of the 200 meters buffer zone.
Latest from Kalangala is that a one Dennis Mubiru together with other 15 culprits have been apprehended for messing up with the buffer zone by not only burning charcoal in the forbidden area but also went ahead to destroy the environment and cultivated crops yet it is illegal as per the act. Their actions also contradict NEMA regulations of Environmental Protection.
This very Mubiru claims 200 meters in the buffer zone in Block 25 Division 02 yet a buffer zone is an area of land designated for environmental protection.
According to Waiswa Ayazika, Director Environmental Monitoring and Compliance, disrespect for the buffer zone remains a big challenge but that as an entity,they are more than ready to enforce the details of the Environmental Act.
He said, “We are legally in existence by an act that empowers us to jealously guard against any destruction of the natural endowments. For someone to use the buffer zone if its necessary,a permit must be sought with clear indicators about the usage”.
Commending Kalangala based Oil Palm Uganda Limited (OPUL),a subsidiary of Wilmar Bidco for respecting and protecting the buffer zone, the determined Director revealed that protection of the green cover should be everyone’s priority in their campaign to preserve the environment. 
Police records show that this is the third time perennial buffer zone violator Mubiru has been arrested but would surprisingly find his way out of police cells. 
OPUL being the biggest investor in Kalangala has also suffered Mubiru’s wrath both legally and maliciously. The latter dragged the former to court but for want of prosecution,Kalangala Magistrate’s Court dismissed the case.
Oil Palm Uganda Limited undertook an Environment and Social Impact Assessment (ESIA) whose approval conditions compel the developer to undertake their operations without compromising the livelihoods of neighbouring communities. 
Having observed the rampant and continuous destruction of the buffer zone and environment generally yet they are under obligation to protect it, management of OPUL notified District authorities to wit RDC, DPC, Environment Officer, DISO among others about the illegal activities in the forbidden zone.The authorities visited the ground culminating into the eventual arrest of Mubiru and group. 
Unlike before when Mubiru would find his freedom from Police custody, this time round the Territorial Environmental Police (Masaka region) referred the group’s case to the Buganda Road based  Utility Court in Kampala for proper handling and management to ensure that the issue is sorted once and for all.The group that got booked at Natete Police Station on transfer from Kalangala,has since been arraigned in court and remanded to Luzira till next month.  
According to it’s operational requirements,it’s the mandate of Wilmar Bidco to protect all buffer zones throughout their plantations as per NEMA regulations failure of which sanctions will be levied against them.
The National Environment Act No.5 of 2019 decentralises environment management in Uganda and gives different strata of responsibility to various stakeholders.Enforcement of the law is specifically shared between NEMA and Environment Police. 
The biased reporting by an Online publication was one of those arising out of an enforcement activity overseen by ASP January Kusiima, the Liaison Officer for Environment Police, Greater Masaka attached to Ministry of Water and Environment. 
However, NEMA picked interest in the matter as the reported case involved deforestation in the Lake Victoria buffer zone which is protected under the law and also the commercial Oil Palm Industry in Kalangala is among the projects that NEMA regulates making it inevitable for OPUL to be concerned with anyone who abuses the buffer zone.
OPUL has since been exonerated of any wrong doing.

For views/comments on this story, WhatsApp editor on 0772523039

The post NEMA TOUGHENS ON BUFFER ZONE PROTECTION, NETS 16 SUSPECTS appeared first on News Editor.

KAMPALA businessman Hamis Kiggundu is in hot soup for trying to grab Kabaka’s land in Kigo by purporting to hold a freehold title on Kabaka’s mailo land title. This news website has learnt that, Ham Kiggundu through a one David Nakibinge claims that he went to Wakiso district land board and acquired a freehold title on Kabaka’s land on which Mirembe villas and Serena Hotel Kigo are built.

On Friday March 11, 2022, Ham Kiggundu in company of a one William Matovu who calls himself an employee of UNRA and Nakibinge who is a front man of Ham Kiggundu stormed Kabaka’s Kigo land plot 38 block 273 with trucks full of sand to dump in a swamp separating Mirembe Villas and Serena hotel Kigo to create a road which they say was to lead to their land. 
As all that happened, Ham Kiggundu was reportedly hiding in a near by shrub to dodge media cameras.

Buganda Land Board (BLB), the custodian of Buganda Land stopped their ill intentioned activities and has written to Police and UNRA asking them to reign in Ham Kiggundu and his KIHAM enterprises to stop using force to encroach on Kabaka’s land illegally.

BLB has written to both SCP Stephen Tanui the Kampala Metropolitan Police commander, Central Police Station and The Director Maintenance Uganda National Roads Authority (UNRA) calling for an immediate intervention to stop an illegal construction of some drainage and road on Kabaka’s land comprised in Kyadondo Block 273 by Kampala businessman Hamis Kiggundu without permission from the land lord.
Mr. Hamis Kiggundu commonly known as Ham is, according to BLB, in conspiracy with UNRA staff to trespass and grab Kabaka’s land with the assistance of officers of Uganda police. BLB top boss has requested both UNRA and Uganda Police to immediately intervene and prevail their staff and officers, halt all processes to avoid unnecessary conflicts and litigations.
Buganda Land Board is an Organisation set up by His Majesty the Kabaka of Buganda to manage Kingdom land.
In letters dated Friday March 11, 2022 received by both KMP Tanui and the Director Maintenance Uganda National Roads Authority (UNRA), BLB said, “Kiham Enterprise  (U) Ltd owned by Hamis Kiggundu, with the help and assistance of police and UNRA have stormed Kabaka’s land at Kigo with the aim of creating the road and they are dumping murram thereon. The land onto which these illegal activities are being done, is Buganda Kingdom land and surrounded by Mirembe Villas Kigo, a Kingdom project and Lake Victoria Serena Hotel, a Kingdom tenant.” The said land is on BLOCK 273 PLOT 3B & BLOCK 273 PLOTS 87,99,110, etc, at Kigo. 
BLB letters say, Kiham Enterprises (U) Ltd erroneously and illegally created on official Kingdom Mailo land a freehold title comprised in WAK6104 FOLIO 25 BLOCK 273 PLOT 23977 at Kigo, and the same is subject of cancellation proceedings and at the Ministry of Lands.
“So it is not permissible that land,and the subject of conflict can be used in the manner we are witnessing now.” Kabogoza informed KMP Tanui whose police boys were witnessed in company of Ham and UNRA staff during the storming of Kabaka’s land at Kigo.
Buganda Land Board told KMP Tanui that, “We request your office to immediately intervene and stop the ongoing violation plus order for the withdrawal of police on the said land. We understand that these violations are deliberately being done towards the weekend so that it can be concluded with less interference.”
In a letter to the Director Maintenance Uganda National Roads Authority, BLB said Kiham (U) Ltd with the help and assistance of UNRA staff and another former UNRA employee William Matovu stormed Kabaka’s land at Kigo with the aim of creating a road thereon. 
“They are doing that under a pretext of creating a drainage for the community which they purport to have been cleared by UNRA. We also understand that a one Frank Rutebarika, station manager Kampala purported to clear this transgression.” Reads BLB’s letter to UNRA. It said, by Friday, Kiham Enterprises (U) Ltd with assistance of UNRA officers was dumping murram to create the road on the subject land under the protection and deployment of police.
BLB reminded UNRA boss that, on all engagement and BLB relationship with UNRA, they know that UNRA follows standard procedures and guidelines including engaging and compensation of the affected parties which is not the case in this development. 
“This conduct is affecting us and our development partners and likely to affect our current and future relationship with you. It is also worth to note that, the land in subject is surrounded by Mirembe Villas,a Kingdom project and Lake Victoria Serena Hotel, a Kingdom tenant and both have not consented to your practices and violations. By copy of this letter, the Executive Director, Director legal services are required to intervene.”Reads BLB’s letter to UNRA. 
Letter was copied to UNRA ED Allen Kagina, The director legal services UNRA and also to The director road and bridge development UNRA.

Buganda Land Board is hailed for doing everything possible to secure, protect and perfectly managing Kabaka’s land. 
BLB’s campaign to all bibanja holders on Kabaka’s land to secure their tenancy on Kabaka’s land by registering their bibanja or obtaining lease, has been talked about as the best ever in fighting land evictions on Kabaka’s land.

For views/comments on this story, email editor at newseditor.info@gmail.com

The post BUSINESSMAN HAMIS KIGGUNDU, UNRA STAFF & POLICE IN TROUBLE OVER A FAKE TITLE ON KABAKA’S KIGO LAND appeared first on News Editor.