By Yusuf Obbo
The Territorial Police in Iganga have arrested two suspects for masquerading as Uganda People’s Defence Forces (UPDF) officers and being in possession of toy pistols in an elaborate extortion scheme targeting a political aspirant.
The suspects have been identified as Mugumira Derick, 30, a truck driver and resident of Bugomba village in Luuka District, and Walujo Wycliffe, 24, a shopkeeper and resident of Kasokoso Zone, Central Division in Iganga Municipality.
According to police, preliminary investigations reveal that in October 2025, Mugumira approached one of the aspirants for the Iganga Municipality parliamentary seat, claiming to be a UPDF Captain stationed at the Senior Command and Staff College, Kimaka. He allegedly told the aspirant that he commanded a team capable of ensuring her electoral victory — but only if she provided UGX 3 million as “operational facilitation.”
The suspicious aspirant reported the matter to police, triggering an investigation that exposed Mugumira’s ruse. Detectives later discovered that the “weapons” he carried were actually toy pistols, which he allegedly welded to resemble real firearms.
On Sunday, November 9, 2025, Mugumira teamed up with Walujo and proceeded to Ntinda Valley Guest House, where they believed they would meet the aspirant to receive the initial payment. However, security operatives who had been deployed for a sting operation swiftly arrested the duo upon arrival.
The suspects are currently detained at Iganga Central Police Station (CPS) as investigations continue. Police confirmed that the two will face appropriate criminal charges upon completion of inquiries.
In a statement, ASP Kasadha Micheal, the Regional Police Spokesperson for Busoga East, warned members of the public particularly political candidates to remain vigilant and report any suspicious individuals.
“We caution all candidates to work closely with the police and report anyone masquerading as security personnel. Such vigilance will prevent criminals from exploiting the political season,” ASP Kasadha said.
The arrests come amid heightened security monitoring in the region ahead of the 2026 general elections, as authorities clamp down on impersonation and election-related fraud.
