crime 4 May 2026 Daily Monitor (Uganda)
Two Suspects Nabbed for Posing as Soldiers on Lake Kyoga, Extorting Fishermen
Authorities in Serere District have detained two men accused of impersonating UPDF soldiers to extort money from fishermen on Lake Kyoga by promising protection for illegal fishing. The suspects, caught with army gear and cash, face further investigation after verification confirmed they are not military personnel. Source: https://www.monitor.co.ug/uganda/news/national/two-arrested-over-impersonating-soldiers-on-lake-kyoga-5446242
UPDF officers stationed at Lake Kyoga in Serere District arrested two individuals on Sunday for allegedly masquerading as soldiers and demanding payments from local fishermen.
Sector commander Phenehus Kyakabale Bugingo named the suspects as James Eligu Alianu and Solomon Alianu. Following checks with UPDF leadership, it was established that neither man serves in the army.
The pair had been promising fishermen safety and permission to use undersized nets in exchange for cash. They were under surveillance prior to the arrest, with Bugingo hinting at additional detentions to combat such scams undermining anti-illegal fishing initiatives.
Serere Resident District Commissioner John Steven Ekoom revealed one suspect posed as a warrant officer and that they possessed army uniforms, shoes, and money taken from fishermen. Reports also link them to setting up fake roadblocks to rob fish traders.
Currently held at Kagwara landing site police post, the suspects will soon be moved to Serere Central Police Station for deeper probes.
Source: Daily Monitor (Uganda)