Former UCAA Director Ayub Sooma Remanded Over Airport Infrastructure Neglect

Former Uganda Civil Aviation Authority (UCAA) Director of Airports and Aviation Security, Eng. Ayub Sooma, has been remanded to prison following his appearance before the Entebbe Chief Magistrate’s Court. Sooma faces official charges of neglect of duty stemming from security and maintenance lapses at the country’s main gateway.

According to court documents, the charges relate to Sooma’s failure to supervise, repair, or take immediate action regarding the theft of copper rods. These rods formed a vital part of the lightning protection system on the rooftop of the new cargo terminal building at Entebbe International Airport. Investigators noted that the alleged offenses occurred between October 2024 and July 2026, despite formal warnings and requests highlighted by consultants.

Appearing before Chief Magistrate Stella Maris Amabilis, Sooma denied the charges against him. Through his legal counsel, Peter Walubiri, the former director applied for bail, citing urgent medical needs and a planned trip to India for specialized treatment concerning a heart condition. The magistrate ordered him remanded until November 13, when the court will formally consider the bail application and receive further updates from the State.

Sooma’s court appearance follows a wave of arrests involving aviation officials. Just a day prior, 13 other UCAA employees were remanded to Kigo Prison over related allegations. Those charges involve the theft of electrical materials, interference with crucial airport infrastructure valued at billions of shillings, and further counts of neglect of duty. The ongoing legal proceedings follow high-level investigations and site inspections led by Ministry of Works and Transport officials.

Read the original report on Nile Post.