The Minister for Local Government, Barugahara Balaam Ateenyi, has directed security agencies to arrest Namisindwa Town Council Assistant Town Clerk Samuel Kobe over allegations of irregularities in a government land purchase.

The minister’s directive follows claims that the land, which was acquired for the construction of Luwa Town Council offices, was reportedly bought for Shs40 million. However, local leaders contend that the property’s actual value or purchase price was only Shs12 million, raising concerns over a possible Shs28 million loss of public funds.

According to Balaam, the significant difference in the reported figures points to possible financial misconduct and misuse of government resources. He has ordered a comprehensive investigation into the transaction to establish the facts, hold those responsible accountable, and recover any public funds that may have been lost.

Local leaders have welcomed the move, saying they had repeatedly questioned the cost of the land acquisition and have been calling for a transparent investigation.

Investigators are expected to examine the entire transaction, with officials warning that additional individuals could face scrutiny if evidence of financial impropriety emerges.