By
Robert Wanzala
The State House Anti-Corruption Unit (SH-ACU), in collaboration with the Criminal Investigations Directorate (CID) and the Office of the Director of Public Prosecutions (ODPP), has arraigned Ivan Kamuntu Semakula, a.𝐤.𝐚 Majambere, the Deputy Resident District Commissioner (RDC) of Rukiga District, on charges related to land grabbing.
Majambere appeared before the Gomba Magistrates’ Court facing allegations of conspiracy to defraud, stealing cattle, and criminal trespass. The charges stem from an incident in August 2023, where Majambere and his accomplices, who remain at large, violently seized a 300-acre farmland (Block 75, Plot 2) in Gomba District.
The land, owned by 75-year-old Mzee Frank Rushanganwa, has been under his rightful ownership since 2003, as evidenced by his certificate of title.
According to prosecution, Majambere and his group not only took control of the farmland but also stole 157 cows valued at UGX 318 million, which were transported to an unknown location.
Majambere later claimed to have purchased a portion of the disputed land in 2020 from his co-accused, Amos Mwesigye. However, Mwesigye, who asserted ownership of the land since 2018, failed to provide proof of purchase.
To further consolidate their occupation, the accused reportedly sold portions of the land to unsuspecting buyers. Despite a court eviction order issued in March 2024 against Mwesigye, the duo continued to defy legal directives and posed a threat to Mzee Rushanganwa’s legitimate ownership, prompting the intervention of the Anti-Corruption Unit.
Majambere has been remanded in custody until December 3, 2024, as investigations continue to locate his accomplices and recover the stolen property. The case highlights the government’s commitment to combating corruption and ensuring justice for victims of land-related crimes.
Speaking on the matter, SH-ACU officials reiterated their resolve to tackle graft at all levels, urging the public to report cases of land fraud and other forms of corruption.