Kole, Uganda | Tension has been growing in Olipa Village, Alito Sub-county, after the head teacher of Olipa Primary School allegedly withdrew more than Sh10 million meant for school activities and vanished for over a month—forcing parents and leaders to petition police for action.
Police say Mr Atim Simon Peter, the long-serving head teacher, accessed the school’s account at Stanbic Bank, Lira Branch, on October 2, 2025, and withdrew Sh10,200,000 just days after the money—Sh10,243,333—had been credited to the account.
The funds were meant to support key school operations, according to minutes from a staff meeting held earlier that day.
But instead, Mr Atim allegedly disappeared immediately after the withdrawal, leaving teachers, parents and learners in confusion.
His disappearance prompted Mr Omara James Leo, the School Management Committee (SMC) chairperson, to file a complaint on October 15.
The case was first registered at Alito Town Council Police Station before being transferred to Kole Central Police Station.
For weeks, community members said they feared the case would stall. Some had begun expressing frustration that a public servant entrusted with children’s welfare could “walk away with school money” without immediate consequences.
North Kyoga Regional Police spokesperson SP Patrick Jimmy Okema confirmed the arrest and said investigators had been following leads quietly.
“A case of embezzlement was registered and statements from all concerned parties were recorded,” SP Okema said. “The suspect was located and arrested on November 20, and is now in custody as investigations continue.”
Parents who spoke to this newspaper said the arrest brings some relief, although many want the money returned and internal controls at the school strengthened.
Police are now compiling the case file for submission to the Resident State Attorney, who will advise on possible charges.
Mr Atim has not yet issued a statement regarding the allegations.