Witnesses at Alikin hotel reject motorcycle theft claims

2 August 2025, 11:46

By Ekel Bonny Daniel

Management of Alikin Hotel in Pader Town, along with community witnesses, have dismissed allegations that a government-issued motorcycle belonging to the LC3 Chairperson of Pukor Sub county, Mr Richard Ojwini, was stolen from the hotel premises on the evening of Thursday, 24 July 2025.

During interviews conducted on 1 August 2025, both hotel staff and nearby residents refuted claims that the motorcycle, registration number UG 4236R, was parked at Alikin Hotel the night it allegedly went missing.

Contrary to initial reports suggesting the motorcycle was stolen between 8:30 pm and 9:00 pm, eyewitnesses believe the incident may have occurred closer to 10:00 pm.

They noted that Mr Ojwini was seen engaged in a lengthy political discussion at a nearby restaurant from 9:00 pm to 11:00 pm that night.

Ms Lillian Agenorwot, the hotel manager, clarified that Mr Ojwini did not arrive at the hotel with a motorcycle on 24 July.

“On the 23rd, the chairman dropped off his laptop for charging and came with his motorcycle, which he later picked up that evening. But on the 24th, he only came with the laptop. I was present with other staff, and even our security guard didn’t see him arrive on a motorcycle,” Ms Agenorwot stated.

She expressed shock upon hearing the chairman claim over the phone that his motorcycle had been stolen from the hotel.

“That was the first time we heard of it. Alikin Hotel is known for its security. We prioritise our clients’ safety, and our guard never abandons his post,” she added.

A chapatti vendor operating near the hotel, who preferred to remain anonymous, supported the hotel’s account, saying he did not see Mr Ojwini arrive on a motorcycle that evening.

In a new statement to Rapa FM, Mr Ojwini insisted that he had parked the motorcycle in front of the hotel that evening.

“I thought the security guard had moved the motorcycle inside for safekeeping. But when I returned the next morning, I found it missing,” he said.

Police have confirmed that investigations are ongoing and urge anyone with information to report to the nearest police station.

The incident has sparked a broader debate over the management of government property, with officials reminding public servants that under the Public Service Standing Orders and the Anti-Corruption Act 2009, negligence involving public assets may lead to personal liability, surcharges, or prosecution.