Uganda Police have arrested four suspects in Iganga District for allegedly impersonating First Daughter Natasha Museveni Karugire through fake social media accounts to defraud unsuspecting members of the public.
The arrests, announced on February 9, 2026, followed a formal complaint by Ms. Karugire after she publicly warned about scammers using her name and photos earlier in January.
In her social media post, she stated: “I have been informed that these fake accounts using my name and my pictures ask the public for money in exchange for help. I will never do this for any reason. Please do not encourage these fraudsters and criminals by sending them money.” She emphasised that her only official account is @Natashakarugire83 and urged vigilance amid ongoing investigations into impersonation networks.
Police spokesperson Rusoke Kituuma addressed the media, confirming the suspects—Asharaf Isabirye (also reported as Isabirye Ashiraf or Allan Isabirye), Rahman Mulondo, Kakaire Zubail (or Zubair Kakaire), and Sharif Egesa (or Egesa Sharif)—created fraudulent TikTok and WhatsApp profiles mimicking Ms. Karugire. They allegedly solicited funds from victims by posing as her and demanding “registration” or “processing fees” for promised financial aid, visa help, or other favors.
The operation, traced via police cyber capabilities, led to the recovery of multiple mobile phones and SIM cards used in the scheme. “We swung into action as security agencies,” Kituuma said, highlighting how the group targeted vulnerable individuals seeking assistance.
Kituuma warned the public against paying fees via social media, a platform rife with scams. He advised verifying offers, especially for sensitive matters like visas, as many have lost significant sums to similar frauds.
The suspects, held in custody, face charges of cyber fraud and impersonation under relevant laws and are expected to appear in court soon. The case underscores rising online impersonation threats in Uganda.