Two Arrested in Iganga for Impersonating UPDF Officers
Police in Iganga have arrested two men accused of impersonating UPDF officers and attempting to defraud a political aspirant using toy guns. The suspects, identified as Derick Mugumira, aged 30, and Wycliffe Walujo, aged 24, are currently being held at Iganga Central Police Station as investigations continue.
Busoga East Regional Police Spokesperson ASP Michael Kasadha said Mugumira, a truck driver from Bugomba Village in Luuka District, posed as a UPDF captain attached to the Senior Command and Staff College, Kimaka. His accomplice, Walujo, a shopkeeper from Kasokoso Zone in Iganga Municipality, reportedly supported him in the fraudulent plan.
Police investigations revealed that Mugumira approached a parliamentary aspirant for the Iganga Municipality seat in October 2025. He claimed to lead a team capable of helping her win the election, but only if she paid an initial Shs3 million for their supposed services. The aspirant became suspicious and reported the matter to police, prompting an immediate operation.
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How Police Tracked and Arrested the Suspects
Investigators discovered that Mugumira had acquired two toy pistols to make his disguise more convincing. On November 9, 2025, he met with Walujo to collect the fake guns before heading to Ntinda Valley Guest House. They planned to meet the aspirant there and collect the payment.
Security operatives had been tracking their movements and quickly set up surveillance at the location. When the suspects arrived, officers intercepted and arrested them before they could proceed with the fraud. They were later taken to Iganga Central Police Station for questioning.
ASP Kasadha confirmed that police are preparing the case file and that both suspects will face court once investigations conclude. He encouraged political aspirants to stay alert and avoid individuals who promise campaign support under suspicious circumstances.
Police Urge Political Vigilance
“We advise all political aspirants to work closely with police and report anyone claiming to offer election support or security services for money,” said Kasadha. “Such people are fraudsters taking advantage of the campaign season.”
The case highlights a growing problem of fraud during Uganda’s election periods. Criminals often impersonate UPDF officers or government agents to gain trust from unsuspecting candidates. By reporting these scams early, victims can help law enforcement stop similar schemes before they spread.
Authorities continue to remind the public that impersonating UPDF officers is a serious crime under Ugandan law. The police have vowed to ensure that Mugumira and Walujo face prosecution. Their arrest shows how coordinated policing and public cooperation can help expose and stop election-related fraud in its early stages.
