Eric Ssewandigi, the Deputy RDC of Rubanda District, confirmed the arrest of Benon Kahangi, the district’s Production Officer. Kahangi stands accused of various offenses, including forgery and misappropriation of funds totaling 21 million shillings.
Allegations suggest Kahangi manipulated documents, including supplier signatures, delivery notes, receipts, and store records, resulting in fraudulent acquisition. Further investigations revealed additional misappropriations, diverting funds intended for payment to extension workers.
Ssewandigi revealed that Kahangi narrowly escaped arrest on Monday due to a tip-off from district colleagues. However, authorities lured him back to Rubanda District, promising to resolve the issues amicably without immediate arrests.
The accusations against Kahangi extend to misappropriating over 120 million shillings intended for purchasing science equipment and furniture for a new district structure, where the production office operates. Investigations also indicate Kahangi forged senior staff signatures to siphon off public funds.
Adding to the gravity of the situation, an unnamed internal auditor disavowed any involvement by stating that their signature was never authorized on Kahangi’s documents.
In a letter to law enforcement, Alex Kwizera, the Rubanda District Chief Administrative Officer, raised serious concerns about Kahangi’s handling of public resources, urging authorities to demand accountability regarding the whereabouts of the misappropriated funds.
As of now, Kahangi is detained at Rubanda Police Station pending court appearances for alleged financial misconduct. Investigations into the matter continue.