Pader police arrest suspects in 2017 police motorcycle theft

2 March 2026, 20:08

By Ekel Bonny Daniel

Nearly nine years after a police motorcycle was stolen from Pader Central Police Station, the District Police Commander (DPC), Jackson Bogere, announced the arrest of suspects believed to have masterminded the theft, marking a milestone in law enforcement accountability in the district.

The first suspect, Okot Jimmy Benjamin, 44, is a serving police constable at Kwera Police Station in Dokolo District.

He is accused of collaborating with Tam Bernard Sam, a local mechanic from Lagwai Zone B, Pader Town Council, to steal the motorcycle in 2017.

A third suspect, Oluge, also a mechanic, remains at large, and police are appealing to the public for any information that could lead to his arrest.

The stolen motorcycle, registration number UP 4365, was reportedly dismantled and sold in parts.

Investigators have recovered several components, including the frame, but the number plate was discarded in a toilet, making the investigation more complex.

DPC Bogere stressed the significance of the recovery: “This motorcycle is public property. It was acquired to support police operations and deliver services to the community. Theft of such property undermines public trust and the capacity of the police to serve effectively.”

The investigation revealed that Okot Jimmy Benjamin allegedly used his position within the police force to facilitate the theft.

The DPC emphasized that the arrest demonstrates the police’s commitment to accountability, even when the suspect is a member of the force.

The arrested suspects are currently in custody and will appear in court under case reference CRB 055/2026.

Authorities are working to trace the remaining suspect, Oluge, and have assured that any assistance from the public will be treated with confidentiality.