The Chief Magistrate Court in Oyam has sentenced 34-year-old Tony Okello to 16 years in prison for theft, malicious damage, and criminal trespass. 

Okello, also known as Otyang, a resident of Akuriluba Village in Atekober Parish, Acaba Sub-county, appeared before the court today, where he pleaded guilty to all three charges and asked for leniency, citing responsibility for six children and a pregnant wife.

However, State Prosecutor Sam Engola opposed a light sentence, describing Okello as a habitual offender.

He informed the court that Okello had previously vandalized lightning arresters and other government property in Oyam Town Council and the district headquarters.

Engola argues that damaging government infrastructure undermines service delivery and endangers users of public facilities, thus “the maximum punishment is necessary,” he told the court, noting that the vandalism of lightning arresters at the court premises posed serious risks.

In his ruling, the Chief Magistrate Benson Semondo said Okello’s actions “contravened Sections 254(1) and 133 of the Penal Code Act,” adding that court premises and other government institutions “deserve respect.” 

He handed Okello ten years for theft, six years for malicious damage, and one year for criminal trespass, all to be served separately.

He declared that the stern punishment should serve as a warning to anyone targeting public institutions. After the ruling, Okello was immediately remanded to begin serving his 16-year term.

Okello was arrested on 1 December 2025, around 11:00 pm, for allegedly cutting and vandalizing property within the Oyam Magistrate Court compound and staff quarters. Police guarding the facility apprehended him and later charged him under CRB 783/2025.