Date: July 7th, 2025
The Anti-Corruption Division Court has convicted and sentenced four individuals over their involvement in the fraudulent procurement of a land title for part of the Lira Central Forest Reserve.
Those convicted are:
- Omara Geoffrey – Former Physical Planner, Lira: Sentenced to pay a fine of UGX 2 million or serve 4 years in prison.
- Ocen Alwong Joseph – Former Senior Land Management Officer, Lira: Sentenced to a fine of UGX 1 million or 2 years in prison.
- Okello Lawrence – Businessman: Sentenced to pay a fine of UGX 6.4 million or 2 years in prison.
- Okwiri Joel – Businessman: Sentenced to pay a fine of UGX 5 million or 2 years in prison.
The group faced multiple charges, including:
- Abuse of Office
- Fraudulent Procurement of a Certificate of Title
- Conspiracy to Commit a Felony
- Altering Boundary Marks
- Occupying a Central Forest Reserve for Commercial Purposes
The accused entered into a plea bargain with the prosecution, in which they pleaded guilty and were sentenced accordingly. In total, they will pay fines amounting to UGX 14.4 million or face imprisonment if they default.
As part of the settlement, businessman Okello Lawrence agreed to return the fraudulently obtained land title to the Commissioner of Land Registration for cancellation.
Additionally, the court ruled that all four convicted individuals are barred from holding public office for the next 10 years, reinforcing accountability and deterrence against misuse of authority in land administration.
This conviction highlights government’s determination to protect forest reserves and public land from encroachment, fraudulent titling, and illegal occupation. The case also serves as a warning to public officials and private individuals who conspire to exploit natural resources for personal gain.