UPDF confirms arrest of Shaban Mugwanya over impersonation and kidnap

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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 currently in UPDF custody 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."

Kulayigye said preliminary findings on the charges of kidnapping indicate that: “In August 2025, Mugwanya, together with Brennan Patrick Mpanga, Peter Kyamanya, and an individual identified as Capt Ivan, kidnapped Mzee Spelito Mubiru from Luwero district. Mugwanya confessed that the act was carried out on the instructions of Sharon Nalwoga, who allegedly paid three million shillings to Capt Ivan to facilitate the kidnapping. The victim was unlawfully detained for two days.”

On the charge of forgery, Kulayigye said: “Mugwanya was found in possession of forged documents and military attire. He revealed that he purchased the UPDF green ceremonial suit for 150,000 shillings and the insignia of a Major for 60,000 shillings from a tailor named Alex at Cooper Complex, Kampala. The same tailor reportedly produced the forged UPDF identity card at a cost of 40,000 shillings. These items were used to falsely confer upon him the possession of military authority.”

On the charge of impersonation, Kulayigye said: “Mugwanya is a habitual imposter who has been posing as a Major attached to State House. In collusion with certain individuals, including Police Constable Benard Seremba, Detective Corporal Moses Okirya, and Maj (Rtd) Jimmy Katende, he is alleged to have conducted illegal arrests and managed land-related disputes for financial benefit. His fraudulent activities, which began in 2024, were carried out under the false guise of military and State House authority, misleading members of the public and exposing them to considerable risk.”

The UPDF takes these offences with the utmost seriousness, added the defence spokesperson.

"Impersonation of military personnel undermines the credibility of the UPDF, endangers public safety, and threatens national security. The UPDF categorically confirms that Mugwanya has never been a member of the Force and fully disassociates itself from his actions."

Kulayigye said fraudulent activities by individuals masquerading as military officers or State House operatives continue to erode public trust and safety.

“The UPDF is committed to ensuring that such incidents are thoroughly investigated and that perpetrators face justice."

Kulayigye said Mugwanya remains in lawful custody and will be presented before the competent authorities to answer charges, including the unlawful possession of items exclusively reserved for the Defence Forces, in accordance with the laws of Uganda.

“The public is urged to exercise caution when approached by persons claiming to be security officials, and to verify their credentials before engagement. Any impersonators or suspicious persons should be reported immediately to the nearest police station or UPDF unit. Citizens are further advised to refrain from participating in unlawful activities initiated by those falsely claiming authority."