By Denish Omiji Oyugi
Dokolo, Uganda – Two staff members of Awelo Health Centre III in Adeknino Sub County, Dokolo District, have been pardoned after admitting to stealing a mowing machine and solar batteries used for the health facility.
The stolen items, which were taken on December 24, 2024, have been returned after the suspects, Denis Okoda (a security officer) and Robert Adunga (a porter), confessed to the theft.
The theft was reported by Awelo Sub County Chief Epiku James to Adeknino Police Station, leading to the arrest of Okoda and Adunga.
The two were detained after the stolen items were discovered missing.
Following their arrest, both suspects while in custody admitted to taking the equipment but pledged to return it to the health centre.
During a community meeting organized on the January 16, 2025 by Officer in Charge (OC) of Adeknino Police Station, Peter Olwit, the duo expressed remorse and promised to replace the stolen items.
The meeting was attended by Dokolo District leaders, including RDC Barbara Akech, and local officials who agreed to pardon the two staff members.
Their decision was based on the suspects’ commitment to make restitution and foster peace in the community.
Ongom George, the Environmental Health Officer for Adeknino, called for intervention from district leaders to address these challenges and improve the delivery of healthcare services.
In addition, Dokolo District Community Liaison Officer Dick Obura urged residents to protect health workers and support them in their duties, as they are key to improving the local healthcare system.
RDC Akech emphasized the importance of collaboration between the health workers and the community.
She urged residents to support their local health facility, which is funded by the government and work together to ensure its success.
She also reminded health workers to uphold their ethical codes of conduct, stressing that anyone who breaches these codes would face legal action.
Community leaders highlighted persistent issues of insecurity and the strained relationship between health workers and local residents.
The case was formally registered at Adeknino Police Station under SD ref.07/27/12/2024.
The stolen items which includes the mowing machine and solar batteries have since been returned to Awelo Health Centre III and the situation has been resolved, offering a chance to rebuild trust between the community and the health facility.
