Two arrested for vandalizing seven Multi-million  solar systems in Arua

By Mike Rwothomio

Police in Arua District  are having in their Custody Manega Hassan ,33, a driver and resident of Tanyanyika Cell, Arua City and Adoroti Ronald , 30, a casual worker and resident of Gallia Village, Yachi Parish, Madi Okollo District, for reportedly stealing seven solar panels.

The suspects were  successfully  intercepted and apprehended with the stollen items   by security team,  comprising Field Force Unit officers and highway patrols  as they were traveling in a Toyota Hiace (green in color, registration number UBE 661Y).

The incident that  occurred on November 18 , 2024, at around  9:00 PM,  disrupted the project’s operation, negatively impacting the local community police said.

The solar panels were part of the red cross funded initiative facilitating  water pumping project in Ayaayia Parish, Ajia Sub-County Arua District.

The West Nile regional Police Spokesperson Collins Asea said In a statement that ”  Preliminary investigations reveal that the suspects, along with others who remain at large, dismantled and concealed the solar panels before attempting to sell them. Six solar panels were intercepted in Erubu Town during a police operation” 

A case of  vandalism and malicious damage to property has been registered and relevant  statements have been recorded, as the vehicle used in the crime is in police custody. Efforts are underway to locate the seventh missing solar panels police said.

Police labeled the  suspects as  ” habitual offenders targeting community infrastructure for personal gain” and added that thorough investigation has been launched into the matter.

Relatedly, unknown thugs last week dismantled solar systems supplying water for the rural community in Zeu Sub-County, Zombo District, plunging community into a complete crisis of confidence.