Police probe alleged PDM fraud, extortion in Bushenyi

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Police in Bushenyi district have launched investigations into alleged fraud and extortion involving beneficiaries of the Parish Development Model (PDM) programme.

The investigations follow complaints that three residents of Kakanju sub-county: Julius Muhanguzi, Grace Kobugabe and Private Nahweera were registered as PDM beneficiaries in 2022 but have never received the funds.

“The complainants were officially registered as beneficiaries, but up to now they have not received the PDM money,” Greater Bushenyi region Police spokesperson Apollo Tayebwa said.

In a related development, the Police say they are also investigating six cases of alleged extortion in which prospective beneficiaries were reportedly asked to pay amounts ranging from shillings 16,000 to 120,000 before accessing PDM funds.

The victims have been identified as Arthur Byaruhanga, Beneath Natukunda, Esther Atuheire, Denavence Twikirize and Evelyn Mirembe, all residents of Bushenyi district.

“Preliminary findings indicate that the victims were allegedly conditioned to first pay money to some local leaders in order to receive shillings one million each under the PDM programme,” Tayebwa said.

Police allege that the payments were demanded by Magoma Hamson, the LC2 chairperson of Kahungye parish, Nimwesiga Lauben, and four other suspects.

“We have so far arrested Magoma Hamson and Nimwesiga Lauben to assist Police with investigations,” Tayebwa said.

He condemned the alleged acts, saying the Police would ensure those responsible are held accountable.

“We strongly condemn such practices, and we are committed to investigating this matter to its logical conclusion,” Tayebwa said.

Tayebwa also appealed to the public to co-operate with Police by reporting similar cases.

“We urge members of the public to always report any form of extortion or fraud related to government programmes so that justice can be served,” he added.

PDM is the Government of Uganda’s flagship anti-poverty initiative designed to uplift millions from destitution through targeted financial support.

However, there have been reports of rampant embezzlement, fraud, and systemic manipulation in over 10 districts, including Kyankwanzi, Kiboga, Kapchorwa, Bukwo, Kween, Serere, Bukedea, Soroti, Kumi, Bulambuli and Namisindwa.

By mid-2025, the Police said there were over 500 cases under investigation and millions stolen.

The programme is based on the Government injecting shillings 100 million annually into each parish to empower households with loans for income-generating activities. Some beneficiaries of the programme have built thriving agribusinesses, including livestock and milling machines, lifting their families from poverty.