crime 7 May 2026 The Observer (Uganda)
Three Nabbed in Iganga for Impersonating First Daughter, Tycoon; Allegedly Running Online Scams
Police in Busoga East have apprehended three individuals in Iganga district on suspicion of creating fake social media accounts to impersonate First Daughter Natasha Karugire and businessman Hamis Kiggundu. The suspects are accused of using these accounts for online fraud and extortion. Source: https://observer.ug/news/three-arrested-in-iganga-over-impersonating-first-daughter-natasha-hamis-kiggundu
Authorities in the Busoga East region have arrested three men in connection with operating fraudulent social media profiles that mimicked First Daughter Natasha Karugire and prominent Kampala businessman Hamis Kiggundu.
The suspects, identified as Hassan Mugoya (27), Ashiraf Kyakatuka (22), and Asuman Isanga (20), were apprehended late Wednesday night in Nampirika ‘A’ village, Nakalama sub-county, Iganga district.
The arrests were prompted by a complaint filed by Hamis Kiggundu at Kiwatule police station on May 5, 2026. Kiggundu reported that unknown persons had created counterfeit social media accounts impersonating him.
Busoga East police spokesperson Michael Kasadha confirmed the arrests, stating that the trio is currently in custody at Iganga Central police station. “The suspects were using fake social media accounts to extort money from unsuspecting members of the public,” Kasadha explained.
Further details indicate that the fraudulent accounts were allegedly used not only for financial extortion but also to spread blackmail and defamatory content targeting the individuals being impersonated. During a search of the suspects’ residence, police reportedly recovered three smartphones and other items deemed to be of evidential value.
Preliminary findings suggest Mugoya managed two TikTok accounts, one under “Natasha Karugire” and another as “The first daughter Natasha mus.” Kyakatuka is accused of operating four TikTok accounts, including “janet.kataha.muse5,” “natashakar7,” “first.daughter767,” and “ssenga.naisanga.04.” Isanga allegedly ran a TikTok account named “NATASHA.K MUSEVENI SOUL.”
The suspects face charges of impersonation and spreading harmful propaganda. Police have stated they will be transferred to Kiwatule police station for further interrogation and potential prosecution as the investigation unfolds.