Ugandan police have arrested four people accused of operating an online fraud scheme in which they allegedly impersonated Natasha Museveni Karugire, the daughter of President Yoweri Kaguta Museveni, to deceive members of the public into sending money, authorities said on Tuesday.
In a statement released by the Uganda Police Force, investigators said the suspects created multiple fake social media accounts on platforms including TikTok and WhatsApp, using Mrs. Karugire’s name, photographs, and identity to gain the trust of victims seeking financial assistance.
Police said the suspects targeted economically vulnerable individuals by offering promises of financial support, employment opportunities, or scholarships. Victims were allegedly required to pay so-called “registration” or “processing” fees before receiving any assistance, funds that were then sent to phone numbers controlled by the suspects.
Acting on intelligence, security agencies carried out coordinated operations in Iganga Municipality, eastern Uganda, leading to the arrest of Isabirye Ashraf, Mulondo Rahman, Kakaire Zubair, and Egesa Sharif. Authorities said multiple mobile phones and SIM cards believed to have been used in the scheme were recovered during the arrests.
The suspects are currently in police custody and are expected to be charged with cyber fraud and impersonation-related offences, according to the statement.
The case carries political significance for President Museveni, one of Africa’s longest-serving leaders, whose family members have increasingly occupied prominent positions in Uganda’s public and political life. During previous election cycles, Museveni’s government has emphasized security, institutional control, and stability as core pillars of his leadership.
Analysts say the use of the president’s daughter’s identity by cybercriminals underscores how political symbolism and public loyalty associated with the ruling family can be exploited for criminal purposes, particularly during periods of economic strain and heightened political tension.
While police have not suggested any involvement by President Museveni or his family, the incident risks eroding public trust especially among citizens who may associate assistance programs or opportunities with individuals close to political power.
For Museveni, whose electoral dominance has long relied on perceptions of state authority and control, the case highlights a growing challenge: protecting citizens not only from physical insecurity but also from digital exploitation in an era where online fraud is increasingly sophisticated and widespread.
The Uganda Police Force strongly cautioned the public against sending money to individuals online who demand upfront payments in exchange for jobs, scholarships, or financial assistance. Authorities stressed that legitimate individuals and institutions do not solicit funds through social media platforms.
Cybercrime has emerged as a growing concern in Uganda and across East Africa, with law enforcement agencies warning that fraudsters are increasingly impersonating politicians, public figures, and institutions to exploit public trust and economic hardship.
