DPP discontinues case against Soroti District Engineer

URN

The Directorate of Public Prosecution (DPP) has discontinued proceedings against the former acting Soroti District Engineer, Dennis Ocung, and Ismail Odeke, a service provider.

Ocung had been charged at the Anti-Corruption Court with conspiracy to defraud the government UGX. 24.4 million contrary to Section 390 of the Penal Code Act and abuse of office contrary to Section 11(1) of the Anti-Corruption Act 2009 as amended on June 27, 2023.

It is reported that Ocung while serving as the acting district engineer, recommended payment of M/S Time Transporters Limited owned by Ismail Odeke for no work done.

Information at the district indicates that Ocung, who was supervising the construction of the water project in Adamasiko- Awaliwal Sub County, allegedly conspired with the contractor to defraud the district UGX. 24,446,637. 

Ocung, who was interdicted from office denied the charges and was subsequently discharged, according to the withdrawal Form signed by the DPP, Jane Frances Abodo. Ocung’s Lawyer, Phillip Engulu says that his client was discharged because the prosecution lacked sufficient evidence to continue with the case. 

The Soroti District Communications Officer, Abraham Ekwaru says that they are waiting for official communication from the relevant authorities to have the officer reinstated. 

Although the Inspectorate of Government had earlier arrested other officials including the water engineer, Alex Oriekot from Soroti District Local Government over related cases, none was produced to a court or interdicted from office.