Man suspected of impersonating senior police officers arrested

KAMPALA - Police on Tuesday (September 30) confirmed they had arrested a man for allegedly impersonating senior police officers and soliciting money from different business personalities.

The suspect was identified as Pius Elangu Eride.

Patrick Onyango, the Kampala Metropolitan Police spokesperson, said Eride used his real name and that of the Division Police Commander of Jinja Road Police to hoodwink victims.

“Police in Kampala have arrested Eride for allegedly impersonating senior police officers, including Superintendent of Police Patrick Opio and  the DPC Jinja Road Police Division," he said in a statement.

"The suspect reportedly used phone calls and WhatsApp messages via MTN number 0762834001 to falsely represent himself to prominent individuals like Vincent Wei, Managing Director of CHINT Uganda, Lorren Nanshemeza of Lakhan Auto Centre, and David Kakonge, a businessman in Industrial Area."

Onyango said the impersonation involved Eride pretending to be Opio and other senior police officers, with identities of some withheld for security reasons.

He allegedly demanded meetings with victims and allegedly asked for money to be sent to 0702599905.

“The suspect's mobile phone was seized and sent for forensic analysis after his arrest. Those defrauded using the mentioned numbers are advised to visit Jinja Road Police for assistance," said Onyango.

"If you have been targeted by such scams, it is crucial to report incidents promptly to the police. Always verify credentials of individuals claiming to be officials, and be cautious of unsolicited demands for money."

Eride's arrest comes a day after the Uganda Peoples’ Defence Forces (UPDF) on Monday (September 29) confirmed they had arrested Shaban Mugwanya, alias Major Shaban, over allegations of impersonation and kidnapping.

Maj. Gen. Felix Kulayigye, the defence spokesperson, said Mugwanya was arrested following credible allegations of serious criminal activities, including kidnapping, impersonation, and forgery.

“Mugwanya, who claims to be a businessman engaged in cattle trading, was apprehended on August 27, 2025, at Shell Fuel Station, Kyengera, Wakiso district. At the time of his arrest, he was dressed in a UPDF green ceremonial suit, adorned with forged insignia purporting to represent the rank of Major," said Kulayigye.

He said a search conducted upon his arrest led to the recovery of a dummy pistol and a forged UPDF identity card bearing the details RO/012032 Maj Shaban Mugwanya.

“He later admitted to masquerading as a UPDF senior officer since February 2024 and disclosed his involvement in unlawful activities, including illegal arrests, debt recovery, and handling of land-related matters for personal gain," said Kulayigye.