552 Arrested in Crackdown on PDM Fund Theft

A widespread police operation has led to the arrest of 552 suspects accused of stealing or mismanaging funds allocated under the Parish Development Model (PDM). Police spokesperson Rusoke Kituuma announced that the crackdown, initiated on August 4, 2026, aims to recover money intended to uplift households from subsistence living to the money economy.

Kituuma emphasized that the abuse of these funds directly hinders the PDM’s core objective, depriving intended beneficiaries of crucial support. The operation has so far spanned across 12 police regional jurisdictions, including areas like Karamoja, Teso, Bugisu, and parts of Buganda.

The arrested individuals represent a cross-section of PDM management, including 251 SACCO leaders, 81 parish chiefs, and various local government and education officials. Charges they face include theft, forgery, embezzlement, obtaining money by false pretenses, and conspiracy to defraud.

Investigations have revealed methods such as the use of forged documents to divert funds and illegal payments demanded from beneficiaries. Police have also assured that any officers found to be involved will face disciplinary action through the Professional Standards Unit.

The operation involves multiple government agencies, including the Directorate of Public Prosecutions and the Internal Security Organisation. Police plan to extend the crackdown to previously un-covered regions, urging those who made illegal deductions or extorted beneficiaries to come forward and refund the money.

Kituuma issued a stern warning that the operation is expanding, stating, “The operation is coming. Without a doubt, it is a question of when, not whether.”

Source: https://nilepost.co.ug/news/377367/police-arrest-552-suspects-over-alleged-theft-of-pdm-funds