Kampala — A polling official in Panyimur sub-county in Nebbi district was recently attacked by supporters a rival candidate and his house and property burnt.

Alfred Ocokuru, the NRM presiding officer, said he lost over sh18m and property after his house was set ablaze by one of the supporters of the aspiring candidates who lost the election.

"I don't know how am going to pay back because it was a loan I got for my fish business," Ocokuru lamented. The Police have arrested seven suspects in connection with the violence.

The suspects, who have been detained at the station, were identified as Oucha Isingoma, 42, Kisa Kisandama, 25, Wilfred Wacal 27, David Ocaki, 19, Aja Ngageno, 25, and Shaban Ofoy, who was contesting for Panyimur sub-county.

Ofoy, who is the prime suspect, is accused of inciting the violence which led to the destruction of property after losing the race to Celestine Awanga Yorick.

Ocokuru said the chaos followed the announcement of results at the polling stations of Dei village, Munduryema and Dei B, where Awanga won with big margins. Alex Wabwire, the district Police commander, said more suspects were on the run. The accused will be charged with arson, criminal trespass and malicious damage.