Ugandan police have arrested four individuals accused of impersonating Natasha Karugire, the daughter of President Yoweri Museveni, in an elaborate online scam that targeted unsuspecting members of the public through social media platforms.
The suspects allegedly created fake accounts on TikTok and linked them to WhatsApp phone numbers while pretending to be Karugire. Using her name and public image, they reportedly claimed to be running charitable initiatives and solicited money from followers under the pretext of registration fees.
According to police, the arrests followed a formal complaint raised by Natasha Karugire herself after she became increasingly concerned about the growing number of fraudulent accounts using her identity online. The case highlights the rising challenge of digital impersonation and cyber-enabled fraud in Uganda and across the region.
Speaking to the media on February 9, 2026, Uganda Police spokesperson Kituuma Rusoke confirmed the arrests and detailed how the investigation unfolded. He said the police began tracking the suspects immediately after Karugire alerted authorities about the impersonation.
“You will recall that Natasha Karugire expressed concern about individuals impersonating her on TikTok and WhatsApp. Once this issue was brought to our attention, we launched investigations without delay,” Rusoke said.
Police revealed that the suspects used TikTok as their primary platform to attract victims. The fake accounts were designed to appear credible, often using Karugire’s name, profile photos, and carefully crafted messages suggesting involvement in humanitarian or youth-focused charity programs.
After engaging users on TikTok, the suspects reportedly directed interested individuals to WhatsApp conversations, where they asked for money. Victims were told that the payments were mandatory registration fees required to participate in the alleged charity projects.
Authorities stressed that these claims were entirely false and that Natasha Karugire was not involved in any such fundraising activities.
Rusoke issued a strong warning to the public, urging citizens to remain cautious when approached online for financial contributions, especially when the requests involve the names of prominent individuals or public figures.
“We continue to advise members of the public not to pay any money to individuals who claim that payments are required for registration into projects, especially when such requests are made through social media or private messaging platforms,” he said.
The suspects were identified as Asharaf Isabirye, Rahman Mulondo, Kakaire Zubail, and Sharif Egesa. Police confirmed that they are currently in custody and are expected to be formally charged and presented before court.
While investigators have not yet disclosed how much money was obtained through the scam or how many victims were affected, police say inquiries are ongoing and additional charges could follow depending on the outcome of the investigations.
This case adds to a growing list of cybercrime incidents in Uganda, where fraudsters increasingly exploit social media platforms to deceive the public. Law enforcement agencies have repeatedly warned that impersonation scams are becoming more sophisticated, often leveraging the identities of politicians, celebrities, and their family members to gain trust.
Cybersecurity experts note that platforms like TikTok and WhatsApp have become attractive tools for scammers due to their wide reach, ease of account creation, and the speed at which information spreads. In many cases, victims are lured by emotional appeals, promises of financial opportunity, or the perceived legitimacy that comes with a well-known name.
Police emphasized that legitimate charitable organizations do not request registration fees through informal social media channels. They encouraged citizens to verify information through official websites, verified social media accounts, or direct contact with recognized institutions before making any payments.
The Uganda Police Force has also reiterated its commitment to strengthening its cybercrime units and working closely with technology companies to identify and shut down fake accounts more quickly. Rusoke said public cooperation remains essential in tackling online fraud.
“We urge the public to report suspicious accounts and messages immediately. Early reporting helps us act faster and prevent more people from falling victim to such crimes,” he added.
Natasha Karugire has previously used her official platforms to distance herself from fraudulent activities conducted in her name. Police say her cooperation was instrumental in helping investigators trace the suspects and gather evidence.
Legal analysts note that impersonation of a public figure, combined with financial fraud, carries serious penalties under Ugandan law. If convicted, the suspects could face charges related to obtaining money by false pretenses, cyber harassment, and misuse of electronic communication platforms.
As the suspects await court proceedings, police continue to investigate whether the group acted alone or was part of a wider network involved in online scams. Authorities have not ruled out the possibility of additional arrests.
The incident serves as a reminder of the risks associated with digital platforms and the importance of online vigilance. Police have called on social media users to remain alert, question unsolicited requests for money, and rely only on verified sources when engaging with online initiatives.
Uganda’s law enforcement agencies say they will continue public awareness campaigns aimed at educating citizens about cybercrime, as online fraud remains one of the fastest-growing criminal threats in the country.
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