Police in Lira District have arrested a man identified as Moses Okello for allegedly impersonating a medical officer and defrauding patients at Lira Regional Referral Hospital.
The suspect was arrested on Thursday at around 10:00 am by the hospital’s security team working together with the Uganda Police Force.
He was reportedly intercepted from the female surgical ward after allegedly defrauding a patient’s caregiver of Shillings 200,000, which he claimed was required to expedite medical services and surgery.
According to reports, Okello allegedly posed as a medical officer attached to the hospital and convinced the unsuspecting caregiver to pay a total of Shillings 500,000, claiming the money would facilitate a “quick medical procedure.”
He reportedly insisted on receiving a deposit of Shillings 200,000 before treatment could be carried out, with the balance to be paid later.
Hospital authorities stated that the caregiver became suspicious and immediately reported the matter to the security team, who quickly alerted police. The suspect was arrested immediately after receiving the money.
In a statement released on Friday, hospital authorities confirmed that the case has been registered at Lira City Central Police Station under reference number 32/26/02/2026, with charges of theft of cash and impersonation preferred against the suspect.
“We shall collaborate with the police and provide all necessary support to ensure justice is served. Within the month of February 2026, we have arrested more than five people under similar circumstances,” the statement read.
The hospital management also reassured the public of strengthened security measures, stating that surveillance is maintained 24 hours a day using CCTV systems to ensure the safety of patients, staff, hospital property, and visitors.
