By The Nakawa Chief Magistrate’s Court has remanded 17 suspects to Luzira Prison over allegations of vandalising and stealing electricity wires and equipment, a crime that has significantly disrupted services across the country.
The suspects, who were brought under tight security at around 1:30 PM on Wednesday, appeared before Magistrate Andrew Katurubuki. The court heard that the accused were involved in a series of coordinated acts of cutting power lines, a crime which led to major power outages affecting factories, health facilities, and public infrastructure.
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Magistrate Katurubuki read out terrorism-related charges stemming from the serious consequences of their actions. The suspects were not allowed to take plea, as the matter is scheduled to be handled by the High Court.
According to lead prosecutor Odongo Martin, investigations are still ongoing. He requested the court to remand the suspects while more evidence is gathered. The case was adjourned to July 17, when the suspects will reappear for further proceedings.
Uganda Electricity Distribution Company Limited (UEDCL) legal officer Jesse Kitenda, who attended the hearing, confirmed the developments in court and expressed concern over the growing threat of power infrastructure vandalism.
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“The government is losing hundreds of billions of shillings every month due to such acts,” Kitenda said. “This is economic sabotage. Offenders must know that the law now provides for a mandatory three-year imprisonment for those convicted.”
The vandalism of power lines has become a pressing national issue, with security agencies and power utilities working jointly to curb the crime and protect essential infrastructure. Authorities have warned of intensified surveillance and prosecution against those involved.
