The Uganda Peoples Defence Forces (UPDF) has expressed concern over the growing tendency by criminal elements and criminal-minded individuals to impersonate members of security agencies for ill motives, as authorities intensify efforts to protect the public from fraud and abuse.
In a statement issued on Monday, the Acting Director of Defence Public Information, Chris Magezi, noted that the most affected institutions include the Uganda Peoples Defence Forces, Internal Security Organisation, and the Uganda Police Force. He added that the vice has also spread to other government Ministries, Departments, and Agencies (MDAs).
Colonel Magezi explained that the criminals often aim to mislead unsuspecting members of the public into making regrettable investment decisions, ultimately defrauding them of their hard-earned resources and property. He stated that in some cases, the impersonators resort to extortion, manipulation, and issuing threats to their victims.
Despite these challenges, Colonel Magezi noted that security agencies have stepped up joint operations and investigations to curb the vice.
”Over the past year, a total of 18 cases were handled between May 2025 and April 2026, with the majority successfully concluded and forwarded to courts of law for further management, demonstrating growing effectiveness in tackling such crimes”. He said.
He revealed that both foreign investors, including multinational companies, and local businesses and individuals across all levels of society have been targeted.
He reassured the public of the security commitment to safeguarding citizens and maintaining the integrity of national security institutions.
”Members of the public are urged to remain vigilant, carry out due diligence in their business dealings, and promptly report any suspicious activities to the nearest police or UPDF office for timely intervention”. He said.
