Police in Kabale arrested a 27-year-old man for bribing UPDF recruitment officers during an enlistment drive in Western Uganda. The suspect, Esau Niwandinda, allegedly offered Shs1,000,000 to gain illegal entry into the Uganda People’s Defence Forces (UPDF).
Niwandinda, who lives in Nyakarambi Cell, Birambo Parish, Maziba Sub County, approached the officers on the final day of a three-day recruitment event at Kabale Municipal Stadium. He reportedly presented the cash offer in hopes of bypassing the official selection process.
Security officials acted swiftly and detained him on the spot. They transferred him to Kabale Police Station for further investigation and possible prosecution. His arrest underlined the army’s commitment to transparency and accountability in the recruitment process.
Major Kiconco Tabaro, the Public Information Officer for the UPDF 2nd Infantry Division, confirmed the incident. He explained that the army does not tolerate corruption in any form. Furthermore, he warned citizens against attempting to manipulate the system through bribes.
“This recruitment is free of charge,” said Major Tabaro. “Anyone who offers money to join the UPDF faces arrest. Anyone who asks for money from applicants will also be prosecuted.”
He stressed that bribing UPDF recruitment officers will never guarantee enlistment. In fact, such actions only attract criminal charges and ruin an applicant’s future in the military. He also urged residents in Ntungamo, Rukungiri, Bushenyi, and Mbarara to avoid bribery attempts as the exercise moves forward.
According to Major Tabaro, the current recruitment campaign aims to select 1,447 new recruits from the Western region. The UPDF will send successful candidates to Kaweweta Training School in Nakaseke District within three days of final selection.
Officials reiterated that integrity remains at the core of Uganda’s military service. They emphasized that merit, not money, determines who joins the ranks. Anyone found undermining this principle will face justice without exception.
This case serves as a clear warning to the public. As Uganda strengthens its defense forces, the government insists on fairness, professionalism, and public trust. Ensuring a clean process not only benefits the army but also reinforces national values.
