The stolen solar panels were part of a Red Cross-funded project designed to enhance access to water for agriculture and livelihoods in the community.

Police in Arua District have arrested two suspects in connection with vandalism and malicious damage to property following the theft of seven solar panels from a community water pumping project in Ayaayia Parish, Ajia Subcounty.

The suspects, Hassan Manega, 33, a driver and resident of Tanyanyika Cell, Arua City, and Ronald Adoroti, 30, a casual worker from Gallia Village, Yachi Parish, Madi Okollo District, were apprehended during a police operation.

According to Asea Collins, the Regional Police spokesperson, the stolen solar panels were part of a Red Cross-funded project designed to enhance access to water for agriculture and livelihoods in the community.

The theft, which occurred on November 18 around 9pm, disrupted the project, depriving local residents of a reliable water source.

Preliminary investigations suggest that the suspects, along with accomplices still at large, dismantled the panels with the intent to sell them.

Six of the stolen panels were recovered in Erubu Town during a police operation.

Asea explained that the suspects were intercepted after a police pursuit involving Field Force Unit officers and highway patrols.

Their vehicle, a green Toyota Hiace with registration number UBE 661Y, was impounded, and statements were recorded. Efforts to recover the seventh missing panel and arrest the remaining suspects are ongoing.

Police suspect the perpetrators are habitual offenders targeting community infrastructure for personal gain.

"The Uganda Police Force is committed to ensuring justice and safeguarding community resources. We urge the public to report any suspicious activity to help prevent such crimes," Asea stated.

Further updates on the investigation will be provided as new developments arise.