The Inspectorate of Government (IGG) has intensified its fight against corruption with the arrest of the Commissioner for Refugee Management at the Office of the Prime Minister (OPM), Mr. Patrick Okello, and six other suspects over allegations of extortion targeting refugees seeking registration in Uganda.
The arrests followed an extensive investigation into what authorities believe was a well-organized scheme that exploited vulnerable refugees during the registration process. Alongside Mr. Okello, the individuals arrested include Assistant Commissioner for Refugee Management Mr. Asiimwe Douglas, Senior Settlement Commandant Mr. Mugabe Geoffrey, Head of Information Technology Mr. Ekwap Noel, Registration Officer Mr. Bweme Henry, Refugee Status Interviewing Officer Mr. Nadiope Arnold, and a Pakistani national identified as Mr. Zafar Ahmad.
According to preliminary findings, investigators suspect that refugees were asked to pay money in exchange for services that should have been provided free of charge. Authorities believe the alleged scheme involved several officials working together to benefit from desperate individuals seeking refuge and legal registration in the country.
Investigators further allege that Mr. Zafar Ahmad played a key role in the operation by acting as a middleman between refugees and the OPM officials. He is said to have coordinated transactions and facilitated communication between the parties involved, making him a central figure in the ongoing investigations.
Before making the arrests, IGG investigators carried out a search operation that led to the recovery of important documents believed to be crucial to the case. The evidence collected is expected to help investigators establish the extent of the alleged corruption network and identify any additional individuals who may have been involved.
The suspects have since recorded statements at the offices of the Inspectorate of Government and are expected to continue assisting investigators as inquiries progress. Authorities have indicated that more details will be released as the investigation unfolds.
The arrests have drawn public attention because they involve senior officials entrusted with managing refugee affairs in a country that hosts one of the largest refugee populations in Africa. The case has raised concerns about the treatment of refugees and the integrity of systems designed to protect and support them.
The operation demonstrates the government’s commitment to fighting corruption and ensuring accountability in public service. It also sends a strong warning that individuals who abuse public office for personal gain will face the full force of the law, regardless of their position. As investigations continue, many Ugandans will be watching closely to see how the case develops and whether it leads to broader reforms within refugee management systems.
