By KT Reporter
Two Boda-boda riders in Katakwi District are in trouble for vandalizing security solar lights recently installed by Ngariam County Independent Candidate Daniel Mulalu. The suspects, Solomon Adipa, a 22-year-old resident of Otiakol Village, and James Okiro, a 25-year-old resident of Pailekol Village in Ajesai Parish, were detained with exhibits of a vandalized solar lighting system.
The riders, both operating in Katakwi District, were apprehended around 11 a.m. on Tuesday, November 25, 2025, by members of the Boda-Boda Association, led by their district chairperson, Olupot Eria, and the community in the villages of Pailekol and Otiakol, in Ajesai Parish, Getom Subcounty, Katakwi District.
Joseph Aciiria, the LC1 Chairperson of Otiakol Village, said the community worked closely with the Boda-Boda leadership to apprehend the suspects as a way of combating acts that derail development. James Okiro’s father admitted that his son has a criminal past and urged authorities to ensure the culprits face the law despite attempts by some people to reconcile the matter.
Olupot Eria, the chairperson of the Katakwi Boda-Boda Association, condemned the crime committed by fellow riders and called for strict measures to curb such illegal activities.
Daniel Mulalu, the Ngariam County Independent Candidate, revealed that he spent Ugx 9 million on six poles installed at Getom Corner and a total of Ugx 285 million on solar lights for 42 trading centres across the county. He said the project was intended to boost night-time business and improve security in areas that lack electricity.
He expressed disappointment over acts of political indiscipline targeting development projects. Mulalu said not only have the solar lights been vandalized, but more than half of the 3,500 campaign posters he placed in Ngariam County have been destroyed.
The suspects pleaded guilty, claiming they were influenced by alcohol and tempted by the devil. Their confession did little to calm the community’s anger, and several residents and business operators—including Charles Oonyu, Joseph Ekwe, Rose Amoding, and Oliver Takali—expressed outrage, warning that they will take action against people who sabotage development.
Stephen Okure Ilemukorit, the Katakwi Resident District Commissioner and chairperson of the District Security Committee, cautioned political actors and their supporters against engaging in acts of violence and indiscipline that may trigger election-related chaos. He emphasized that vandalism is a criminal act that must be stopped.
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