Four Nabbed in Tororo for Posing as State House Anti-Corruption Officials

Authorities in Tororo District have apprehended three men and one woman on charges of impersonation, forgery, and uttering false documents. The group is accused of falsely presenting themselves as members of the State House Anti-Corruption Unit (SHACU) to intervene in a local land dispute.

According to police reports, the suspects approached the family of the late Benedicto Kiwanuka and Agnes Nyaketcho Apio, claiming to be lawyers tasked by SHACU to settle a land disagreement. Their alleged deception was uncovered when local leaders and residents examined the documents provided by the group. Observers noted the absence of official stamps and authentication marks typically associated with SHACU.

Mr. Martin Olwo, a district councilor, initially raised suspicions and alerted authorities. His intervention, along with the Tororo Resident District Commissioner (RDC), led to the suspects’ arrest and transfer to the police. The arrested individuals have been identified as Simon Peter Byamukama (a pastor), John Odoi (an electrician), Gad Sikenyi (a driver), and Margaret Akola (a peasant).

Investigators discovered that a letter, purportedly from SHACU, summoned parties involved in the property dispute. This letter, however, contained significant inconsistencies, including the purported involvement of individuals like Electoral Commission Chairperson Simon Byabakama and Inspector General of Government Justice Aisha Nalule, who are not affiliated with SHACU. The document also strangely included Judiciary contact details.

Bukedi South Regional Police spokesperson, Mr. Moses Mugwe Johnson, confirmed that witness statements have been recorded and the alleged forged documents seized. The case file has been forwarded to the Resident State Attorney, who has sanctioned the charges.

Tororo Deputy RDC, Mr. Albert Amula, confirmed the arrests, decrying the use of high-profile government names for fraudulent purposes. Police are using this incident to warn the public against impersonating government officials, emphasizing the severe legal consequences.

This incident is the latest in a series of similar cases where individuals have allegedly posed as State House officials to influence various disputes within Uganda.

Source: Daily Monitor (Uganda)