Chief of Defence Forces (CDF) Gen. Muhoozi Kainerugaba has reportedly ordered the arrest of Stephen Nuwagaba, a young man accused of falsely presenting himself as a high-ranking security and intelligence official with access to State House.
Reports indicate that Nuwagaba had been living within State House premises and moving with Special Forces Command (SFC) escorts while allegedly claiming to hold senior positions within Uganda’s security system. The development has raised concerns over how he gained access to highly restricted areas and officials.
According to investigative reports, Nuwagaba, who is believed to be in his mid-20s, allegedly introduced himself as a UPDF Brigadier General, a Senior Presidential Adviser on Intelligence and Security, and a person with links to foreign intelligence organisations including Israel’s Defence Forces and Mossad.
However, security agencies reportedly found no records to support the credentials and claims he presented. Reports further allege that he claimed to have advanced cybersecurity training from various international institutions, but these details could not be independently verified.
Investigations into his activities reportedly indicate that he used State House vehicles, sometimes with covered number plates, and enjoyed security protection from SFC personnel while carrying out his activities.
Nuwagaba is also accused of engaging in schemes targeting senior government and security officials through alleged blackmail, false information and extortion attempts. Reports allege that he demanded money from some officials while claiming he could influence investigations or prevent damaging information from reaching President Yoweri Museveni.
Among the allegations is that he fabricated WhatsApp conversations and intelligence reports that allegedly affected the reputation and careers of some officials. He is also accused of collecting money from individuals by making false promises, including claims that he could facilitate certain government-related arrangements.
The reports further suggest that his actions created tensions among security agencies by allegedly sharing conflicting information and presenting himself differently to various senior officials.
Questions have since emerged over how Nuwagaba managed to gain such proximity to powerful offices and individuals within the government system. His alleged activities have triggered calls for stronger verification procedures and tighter security checks.
The reported arrest order by Gen. Muhoozi Kainerugaba marks a major step as security agencies move to investigate the allegations. Authorities are expected to provide official details regarding his detention, possible charges and the findings of ongoing investigations.
If the allegations are confirmed, the case could expose security weaknesses that allowed an individual to allegedly misuse access to high-level government circles for personal benefit.
