Uganda Police have arrested four suspected cyber fraudsters accused of impersonating Mrs. Natasha Museveni Karugire on social media platforms and defrauding unsuspecting members of the public.
Speaking in an official statement on X (Former Twitter), Uganda Police Spokesperson Kituuma Rusoke said security agencies uncovered a coordinated cybercrime scheme in which suspects created fake TikTok and WhatsApp accounts using Mrs. Karugire’s photographs and identity to appear legitimate.
According to police, the suspects targeted followers who reached out online seeking financial assistance. Preliminary investigations show that the fraudsters monitored Mrs. Karugire’s genuine social media presence, identified individuals requesting support, and then initiated private conversations while pretending to be her.
“Once contact was established, victims were asked to first pay a so-called registration fee or processing charge, with the amount varying depending on the assistance requested,” Rusoke said.
Police further revealed that victims were directed to send or deposit money to specific telephone numbers operated by the suspects. Several individuals were defrauded of varying amounts through the scheme.
Acting on intelligence, security operatives carried out an operation in Iganga Municipality, leading to the arrest of four suspects identified as Isabirye Ashiraf, Mulondo Rahman, Kakaire Zubair, and Egesa Sharif.
Upon arrest, the suspects were found in possession of multiple mobile phones and several SIM cards believed to have been used to facilitate the fraud. The suspects are currently in custody and are expected to be arraigned before court shortly to face charges related to cyber fraud and impersonation.
Rusoke strongly cautioned members of the public against paying money to individuals online who demand registration fees, processing charges, or advance payments in exchange for financial assistance, jobs, visas, scholarships, or other opportunities.
“Genuine service providers and reputable individuals do not demand upfront payments through social media platforms,” he warned.
The Uganda Police spokesperson urged the public to remain vigilant, verify offers using official channels, and report any suspicious online activity or fake accounts to the nearest police station, calling for continued public cooperation in combating online crime.
. @mkituuma "This is to inform the public about the arrest of a group of cyber fraudsters who have been impersonating Mrs Natasha Museveni Karugire and defrauding unsuspecting members of the public.
Security agencies have been investigating a cybercrime scheme in which criminals… pic.twitter.com/G189pcvS7S
— Uganda Police Force (@PoliceUg) February 9, 2026
