The Resident District Commissioner of Nansana, Charles Lwanga, has launched a crackdown on individuals impersonating government officials and illegally charging citizens for services related to National Identification cards.
Lwanga vowed to arrest and prosecute all those posing as brokers for government services, warning that such acts undermine public trust and violate the law.
His remarks follow the arrest of Jaziri Kato, a Nansana resident accused of masquerading as an official from National Identification and Registration Authority (NIRA) and extorting money from unsuspecting citizens.
“We will not tolerate individuals who exploit citizens by charging for services that are supposed to be free. Those involved will be arrested and prosecuted,” Lwanga said.
Kato was apprehended after allegedly taking money from a 17-year-old student, promising to facilitate the processing of a National ID. According to the minor, who cannot be named due to his age, Kato demanded shs 30,000 to secure recommendation letters from local authorities, including the LC, GISO, and RDC offices.
“My mother sent me to NIRA in Naluvule to process my ID, but I met Kato who told me he could handle everything if I paid him,” the teenager explained.
The case follows the widespread challenges citizens face when acquiring National IDs—often involving bribery and exploitation.
The minor later reported the matter to the RDC, prompting swift action that led to Kato’s arrest.
When confronted, Kato admitted to the offense and pleaded for forgiveness.
“I made a mistake. It was my first time doing this, and I ask to be forgiven,” he said.
The boy’s mother, Aisha Nakimuli, also accused Kato of deceiving her and taking money under false pretenses.
“He lied to me that he would take me to the GISO office and help process the documents, but it was all false,” she said.
Local residents have condemned the growing trend of impersonators targeting vulnerable citizens.
“These fake officials are everywhere, taking advantage of people who don’t know the procedures,” one resident said.
Lwanga emphasized that Kato’s arrest should serve as a warning to others engaging in similar schemes.
“Government services like National ID registration are free. Anyone asking for money is a fraudster, and we will deal with them decisively,” he added.
Meanwhile, the Wakiso District head of NIRA, Timon Ainebyona, acknowledged the presence of fraudsters around registration centers and urged the public to remain cautious.
“We are aware that conmen operate around our offices. All official payments are made through banks, and people should avoid giving money to individuals,” Ainebyona said.
Kato has since been handed over to police in Nansana and remains in custody as he awaits to be charged in court. Authorities have reaffirmed their commitment to protecting citizens from exploitation and ensuring transparency in public service delivery.
