Africa-Press – Uganda. Police in Masindi District have arrested seven municipal council staff members on suspicion of deliberately sabotaging a municipal grader by pouring salt into its fuel tank.
The motive behind the act remains unclear.
Julius Hakiza, spokesperson for the Albertine region police, confirmed that the incident involved the municipal grader, registration number UAJ 932X, which was parked at the Masindi municipal council offices.
Preliminary investigations suggest that some municipal staff may have colluded to damage the grader’s fuel tank.
Hakiza explained that the damage was discovered when the grader’s driver attempted to check the fuel level, only to find the tank clogged with what appeared to be salt.
“When the driver opened the fuel tank, he noticed particles believed to be salt, which had damaged the tank,” Hakiza said.
Following this discovery, police collected samples for testing and arrested seven staff members from the municipal works department, who oversee the grader.
“Our officers collected evidence, and these seven staff members are now in custody at Masindi Central Police Station to assist in the investigation,” Hakiza added.
Sanoni Ddala, the Masindi Deputy Resident District Commissioner, urged the public to report any information that could help identify those responsible.
“Regardless of any grievances someone might have with the municipal council, damaging public property is unacceptable,” Ddala said.
Masindi Mayor Businge Kyomuhendo expressed frustration over the incident, highlighting the grader’s importance in maintaining roads.
“This machine is vital for improving road access in our community. We had plans to install CCTV cameras for added security, but this incident shows the urgency of that measure,” Kyomuhendo stated.
Police are committed to uncovering the individuals responsible for the sabotage, assuring the public that all efforts are being made to ensure justice.
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