Apac, Uganda – Fuel theft and alleged collusion with local security personnel have caused significant delays in the ongoing Rwekunye-Apac road construction project, managed by
The situation has raised concerns about sabotage and corruption, as both local authorities and the contractor face mounting pressure to address the crisis.
The road, being upgraded from a marrum surface to an asphaltic pavement under Lot 1, is vital for easing transportation challenges in the district.
However, repeated fuel thefts, compounded by delayed payments to Project Affected Persons (PAPs), have stalled the construction process.
Assistant Resident District Commissioner (RDC) for Apac, Okot Jonal, confirmed that fuel theft remains a major obstacle to the smooth running of the roadworks.
One suspect was arrested on March 2, 2025, following a operation by Assistant RDC Okot that uncovered a Toyota Corolla (UAH 946U) transporting eight jerry cans of stolen fuel, each holding 20 liters.
The vehicle, often seen in coordination with boda bodas, suggests an organized effort to siphon and sell fuel illegally.
The arrest, reported at Apac Central Police Station under SD Ref. 29/02/03/2025, involved one person found in the vehicle at the time of the operation.
Authorities are conducting further investigations based on intelligence gathered, with plans to intensify operations.
The suspect remains in custody, although both the District Police Commander (DPC) of Apac and the contractor, Sadeem Al Kuwait, have yet to respond to requests for comment.
Amid the fuel theft, allegations have surfaced about possible connivance between local security personnel and those behind the thefts.
RDC Jonal warned of severe consequences for any security officers found complicit in the sabotage of the road project.
He emphasized that this is a deliberate act of sabotage and assured the public that actions would be taken to address security personnel involvement.
“Everyone involved in this criminal activity will face the law for sabotage,” Jonal stated, underlining that the theft is significantly hindering the project’s progress.
He also expressed frustration with those seeking to undermine the project, saying that such actions are harmful to the community and the country’s development.
“We must love ourselves and our country,” Jonal said, emphasizing the importance of patriotism in overcoming these challenges. “This road is for us, and it’s painful to see unpatriotic characters fighting it back. We must remain vigilant and united.”
Jonal urged the community to remain vigilant and report any suspicious activities to the relevant authorities in a timely manner.
He further assured the public that numbers for inquiries and complaints are always available 24/7.
From the RDC to all security heads, Jonal emphasized that the authorities are committed to taking immediate action based on any reports received.
In addition to the fuel theft, delayed payments to PAPs have added to the challenges faced by the contractor.
Sources suggest additional time will be required to resolve current setbacks by Sadeem Al Kuwait.
Jonal voiced concerns about the project’s future, noting that fuel theft remains a significant barrier to timely completion.
The road project is crucial for the district, and delays have not gone unnoticed.
Local leaders are calling for swift action, urging both the authorities and the contractor to prioritize completing the project.
With transportation difficulties affecting trade, healthcare, and education, the road’s completion is viewed as vital for economic development and improved livelihoods.
The public awaits updates on the case’s progress and the revised project timelines as investigation unfolds.
Authorities have pledged strong action against those involved in the theft and sabotage, but until then, the road’s completion remains uncertain.
