POLICE | UPDF | KAINEMBABAZI

BUSOGA - Police in Buyende district said they have arrested a woman who reportedly posed as a military officer of the Uganda People’s Defence Forces (UPDF). 

Busoga North Police spokesperson Michael Kasadha said Eunice Kainembabazi was arrested on allegations of fraud and impersonation on Thursday.

“Her arrest followed a report made by the Fisheries Protection Unit Commander, Cpt. Jacob Katumba, in response to public complaints of fraud cases implicating the suspect," he said.

"At the time of her arrest, Kainembabazi had allegedly conned unsuspecting victims of about sh15m."

Preliminary investigations, added Kasadha, suggested that whenever an operation against illegal fishing would be conducted, Kainembabazi would call Fisheries Protection Unit commanders introducing herself as a colonel and ordering for the release of suspects.

“It was yesterday that her luck ran out," said Kasadha.

"She called one of the officers asking him to release the illegal boats that had been impounded. She was asked to follow up on the matter at the detach.

"On arrival, she was asked to identify herself, which she did, by masquerading as a UPDF officer. When she was asked to produce her identity card, she broke down and revealed how she was just a civilian."

On checking the suspect's phone, she had a photo of herself dressed in a UPDF uniform. 

“This prompted her immediate arrest and detention at Bukungu Police Station. A framed photo in uniform was recovered from her residence," said Kasadha.

"Further investigations are ongoing."

Kainembabazi's areas of operation have reportedly been Jinja and Buyende, targeting fishermen operating around Lake Kyoga in Buyende district.

Her arrest followed a similar one last week, where another imposter was arrested in Namasagali for allegedly extorting money from fishermen in Namasagali and Kagumba sub-counties, according to Police.