crime 20 April 2026 Daily Monitor (Uganda)
Ngoma Health Centre Boss Arrested After Stolen Solar Batteries Found Under His Bed
Dr. Mukuzi Muhereza, the officer-in-charge at Ngoma Health Centre IV in Nakaseke district, has been arrested for allegedly stealing two solar batteries from the facility's maternity ward power room. Police recovered the items hidden beneath his bed at his home. Source: https://www.monitor.co.ug/uganda/news/national/ngoma-health-centre-in-charge-arrested-over-stolen-solar-batteries-5429912
Police in Nakaseke district have arrested Dr. Mukuzi Muhereza, the 50-year-old officer-in-charge of Ngoma Health Centre IV, over the theft of two solar batteries from the maternity ward’s power room.
The batteries, identified as 200AH Gel-type and made in China, were disconnected on April 16, 2026, reportedly on Dr. Muhereza’s instructions, supposedly for transfer to Kalege Health Centre III. A vigilant support staff member photographed the dismantled setup and shared it on the health centre’s WhatsApp group, raising alarms about government property.
Dr. Muhereza responded in the group claiming management awareness, but the batteries vanished the next day. The security guard later admitted helping load them into the doctor’s personal vehicle.
Acting on a tip-off, officers searched his residence in Ngoma B Zone on April 17, recovering the batteries from the children’s room, hidden under the bed. Savannah Regional Police spokesperson ASP Sam Twineamazima confirmed the recovery and arrest.
Dr. Muhereza, former Secretary General of the Uganda Medical Association (2017-2020) and operator of a private clinic nearby, claimed he was moving the items to the District Health Officer’s office per an April 8 meeting. Police are verifying this, with no confirmation yet.
The batteries power essential lighting in the maternity wing, including the delivery room. Other items like a microscope and two computers have also gone missing recently, under investigation.
He is detained at Butalangu Central Police Station, facing charges of theft and abuse of office.
Source: Daily Monitor