Security warns cybercrime rings, imposters ahead of 2026 General Election

KAMPALA - Police have issued a stern warning against cyber-enabled crime and criminals disguising themselves as political supporters during campaigns, saying security agencies will act decisively to protect the integrity of the electoral season.

Addressing the media at Police headquarters in Naguru, Kampala, Police spokesperson Rusoke Kituuma cautioned individuals using digital platforms to fuel criminality or interfere with elections.

“Those responsible should know that the law is clear and there are severe punishments. You will not just use electronic space with impunity and think you will go free. You may survive a day or two, but at one point, you will be held to account. We have the capabilities and we shall utilise them accordingly, ” Kituuma warned. 

He noted rising cases of criminals posing as supporters by wearing party T-shirts, colours and paraphernalia to infiltrate campaign events and rob unsuspecting members of the public.

“Our commanders have been tasked to seriously address these challenges. We have seen incidents where these goons rob supporters and even attack mobile money outlets,” Kituuma said. 

Kituuma added that traffic laws remain fully enforceable during the electoral period, warning motorists and campaign teams against assuming relaxed regulations.

“There is no law which has been frozen because people are vying for political power. If you choose to break them, you break them at your own peril,” he said. 

He urged all political actors to co-operate fully with security agencies, saying they rely on Police and other responders for safety, fire protection, traffic management and general crowd security.

“There will always be one or two people who want to cause mayhem in large crowds—snatching a bag, snatching a phone. So, we call upon all political actors to work closely with security so that these activities run smoothly,” Kituuma said.