UPDF Officers Accused of Fuel Theft Seek Bail

Four senior officers from the Uganda People’s Defence Forces (UPDF) have formally applied for bail before the General Court Martial sitting in Makindye. The accused, Brig Gen James Barigye Ruheesi, Col David Ociti Kidega, Maj Innocent Kikongi Mugumya, and Capt Kenneth Labwon Kinyera, deny charges of engaging in personal interests prejudicial to operational efficiency.

Prosecutors allege that between July 2022 and December 2023, the officers diverted approximately 270,000 litres of automotive gas oil. This fuel was reportedly meant for the Uganda Rapid Deployment Capability Centre in Jinja, but was allegedly siphoned off while the officers were stationed in Kampala and Jinja.

The defence team, representing Brig Gen Ruheesi, highlighted his over a year of detention prior to formal charges and his deteriorating health conditions, including asthma and diabetes. They also noted his long service record of over four decades and presented several prominent sureties, including a retired Major General and a retired Brigadier.

Lawyers for all four accused emphasized that the alleged offences are bailable and that their clients are first-time offenders. Each officer presented a list of sureties, including family members and fellow officers, who pledged to ensure their appearance in court for trial.

This case unfolds amidst a broader anti-corruption push within the UPDF, as indicated by statements from Chief of Defence Forces Gen Muhoozi Kainerugaba regarding the arrest of officers involved in fuel theft. The systematic diversion of fuel raises significant concerns about the operational readiness of the affected military unit and represents a substantial financial loss to the government.

Source: https://observer.ug/news/army-fuel-theft-suspects-seek-bail