Lango Parliamentary Group rescues over 100 youths from exploitative forestry work

10 June 2026, 7:41 am

By Eman Yonah Oruk

Over 100 stranded youth rescued by Lango Parliamentary Group after job scam in Kiboga and Kyankwanzi

The Lango Parliamentary Group (LPG) has successfully rescued over 100 stranded youths who were deceived with false promises of lucrative employment opportunities in Kiboga and Kyankwanzi districts. Instead of the secure jobs they were promised, the young people were subjected to exploitative labour, forced to slash forests and weed under trees without adequate food or proper care.

This intervention follows an earlier rescue operation on Monday led by the group’s Chairperson, Hon. Patrick Ogwang Obura, who saved 20 youths from similar conditions. The victims, drawn from districts including Oyam, Kwania, Dokolo, Kole, Apac, Lira, and other parts of the Lango sub-region, will be returned to their respective homes, starting with Oyam.

The youths had been recruited by the China International Forestry Company under deceptive arrangements that amounted to human trafficking. Hon. Ogwang Obura confirmed that a case has been opened against the company at Oyam Central Police Station. He further revealed that investigations are ongoing following the recent deaths of two individuals from Iceme under unclear circumstances. He urged parents to remain vigilant and report suspicious activities to leaders for timely intervention.

Hon. Ogwang Obura expressed gratitude to fellow members of the Lango Parliamentary Group, including Dr Eunice Apio Otuko (MP, Oyam North), Betty Engola Aworo (MP, Apac District), Fred Jalameso (Ajuri County), Tonny Eron (Kwania County), Dr Samuel Opio Acuti, Vincent Opito, and other MPs from the Lango sub-region, as well as Oyam District Chairperson Nelson Adea Akar, for their cooperation in the rescue efforts.

Amolatar District Woman MP and LPG Vice Chairperson, Janet Auma Okao, called for a comprehensive investigation into the recruitment scheme, stressing that four youths had already died in connection with the incident. She insisted that those responsible must be held accountable.

Meanwhile, Oyam District Police Commander, SP Francis Okongo, advised young people to make better use of available land for farming instead of pursuing false job opportunities that often end in suffering.