Security agencies have raised concern over a growing trend of individuals impersonating members of the country’s armed and security forces to carry out criminal activities.
In an official statement released on April 20, 2026, the Acting Director of Defence Public Information (DDPI), Chris Magezi, warned that such cases are becoming increasingly frequent and sophisticated.
According to the statement, the most affected institutions include the Uganda People’s Defence Forces, the Uganda Police Force, and the Internal Security Organisation.
However, the issue has also spread to other government ministries, departments, and agencies, indicating a broader pattern of abuse of public trust.
Authorities say the primary motive behind these impersonation cases is to deceive unsuspecting members of the public, particularly in relation to fraudulent investment schemes and business ventures.
Victims are often manipulated into making poor financial decisions, resulting in significant losses of money, property, and other resources.
In some cases, perpetrators have gone further, using threats, extortion, and intimidation to exploit their targets.
“Criminal elements are increasingly using the identities of security personnel to mislead and defraud the public. These individuals manipulate, extort, and in some cases threaten their victims under the guise of authority,” Magezi said.
Joint operations and investigations conducted over the past year have recorded at least 18 cases between May 2025 and April 2026.
Authorities confirmed that most of these cases have been concluded and forwarded to courts of law for further legal action.
However, officials declined to provide detailed commentary on specific cases, citing the legal principle of sub judice, which restricts discussion of matters currently before the courts.
The statement further revealed that both local and international communities have been targeted.
Foreign investors, including multinational companies operating in Uganda, have been particularly vulnerable. Nonetheless, Ugandan businesses and individuals across all levels of society have also fallen victim to these schemes.
Security agencies are now urging the public to remain vigilant. Citizens are encouraged to verify the identity of individuals claiming to represent security institutions and to conduct thorough due diligence before engaging in any business or financial transactions.
“Members of the public should exercise extra caution in their day-to-day activities. Any suspected criminal behavior should be reported immediately to the nearest police station or UPDF authority for timely intervention,” the statement read.
Authorities reaffirmed their commitment to combating impersonation crimes and protecting the public from fraud and exploitation.
They also stressed the importance of community cooperation in identifying and reporting suspicious activities.
