Masaka businessman linked to ADF

Security circles in Masaka district have linked businessman Abdul Hamidu Lugemwa, 41, to the Allied Democratic Forces (ADF). 

They claim that Lugemwa, a resident Kyabakuza Zone A, in Masaka Municipality is a former member of ADF and is being investigated for fresh links with the insurgents. 

Andrew Kandiho, the District Internal Security Officer, said there has been Intelligence information being collected about him. 

Although none of the security organs discloses where Lugemwa is being detained, Kandiho said he is safe as investigations continue. 

On February 1, 2019, plainclothes men picked Lugemwa from his home. His family has been looking for him since, but all efforts have been in vain. 

At first, Police and UPDF's Armoured Brigade Unit in Masaka denied knowledge of his whereabouts. 

It is until later when Lameck Kigozi, the Masaka regional Police spokesperson, revealed that he was arrested by security agencies.  

Flavia Terimurungi, the Masaka UPDF Armoured Brigade Unit spokesperson, said she has never received complaints from Lugemwa's family members. 

The businessman runs one of the biggest maize mills in Kyabakuza and employs more than 20 workers. His family is living in fear since his arrest. 

His four wives Sumayya Nabukwasi, Mariam Nazziwa, Salina Naigaga and Hadijja Babirye are looking forward to seeing him again. 

Lugemwa's mother Joweria Nassaka argues that if his son had a case to answer, then it would be appropriate to inform his family after the arrest. 

"Whatsoever my son is accused of, he deserves to be brought in court," she said. 

She further added that different family members have consistently received threats from anonymous callers telling them to back off the case.

The business fraternity in Masaka, fellow Muslims and other community members have appealed to the government to intervene in the matter.