Security guard, caretaker arrested after sh3.2 drug theft from Lira facility

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Police in Lira district are investigating a case of store breaking and theft of essential medical supplies from Akangi Health Centre II in Ogur Sub-county. This is the latest incident in a series of break-ins targeting rural health facilities in the region.

North Kyoga region Police spokesperson, Patrick Jimmy Okema, says unknown thieves gained access to the health facility’s drug store at an unknown time on Sunday, July 14, 2025, and made off with drugs and supplies valued at over shillings 3.2 million.

The theft was reported by Anyes Akullu, an assistant nursing officer and caretaker of the facility. She told the Police that the health centre, located in Awigwenowir village, Akangi parish, had been locked with padlocks, and the store contained an assortment of drugs.

Among the stolen items were:

82 boxes of male condoms

93 boxes of Coartem for adults

37 boxes of Coartem for children

53 boxes of malaria RDT kits

15 boxes of Amoxicillin capsules

The thieves allegedly used keys to access the facility, as the padlocks showed no signs of being broken or tampered with.

Police say a case of store breaking, theft of drugs and neglect of duty has been opened at Lira District Police Station. Officers visited the scene, documented evidence and
recorded statements from witnesses.

A subsequent search at the residence of Calvin Okwir, the facility’s security guard, led to the recovery of:

14 boxes of implants

Yellow and red bin liners

A tracking machine

14 official books

43 COVID-19 vaccination cards

Okwir and caretaker Anyes Akullu were both arrested and are in custody to assist with investigations.

Preliminary findings reveal that all the health workers at Akangi Health Centre II reside in Lira city, despite having accommodation built and available for use at the facility — a situation the police say raises concerns about accountability and security.

This incident follows similar cases of theft reported in rural health centres across the Lango sub-region in recent months, where lax security and absentee health workers have exposed government facilities to criminal activity.

“This is a very unfortunate incident,” Okema said.

“We are committed to investigating thoroughly and ensuring that those responsible are brought to book.”