Interdiction order issued against former Iceme SAS

18 September 2026, 12:39 am

By Eman Yonah Oruk

The Resident District Commissioner (RDC) of Oyam, Sgt Shilako James, has directed the interdiction of Joel Atine, former Sub-County Chief (SAS) of Iceme, who is currently serving in Loro Sub-County.

The decision was made to pave the way for investigations into allegations of mismanagement and financial loss amounting to Shs27 million. The funds had been allocated for the purchase of land for the Iceme Sub-County headquarters, but Atine allegedly acquired a smaller plot without proper authorisation, acting as an individual rather than on behalf of the sub-county or district.

The announcement was made during a public baraza convened on Thursday, September 17, 2026, at Iceme Town Council to discuss ways of strengthening service delivery in Oyam District.

In his remarks, RDC Sgt Shilako James said there was no resolution authorising the purchase of land at the site chosen by Atine and that there was no need for a government valuer in the matter.

He accused the officer of abuse of office, diversion of funds and causing financial loss to the local government, stressing that interdiction was necessary to allow further investigations.

Nicholas Opio Awelo said the Sub-County Chief had paid for the small piece of land in Dele, but when the matter was presented to the council, it was rejected. He added that Atine proceeded with the purchase after receiving a recommendation from the district.

Meanwhile, Prossy Laker, the Land Officer of Oyam District, clarified that she had been aware of three proposed sites for the new headquarters. After an assessment, she said the land in Agoba and Dele did not qualify, leaving only the site in Teokic as suitable for the construction of the new Sub-County headquarters.