The Uganda Peoples’ Defence Forces (UPDF) has arrested Mr. Mugwanya Shaban, a man who for more than a year posed as a senior army officer under the name “Major Shaban.” He was taken into custody on 27th August 2025 at Shell Fuel Station in Kyengera, Wakiso District, after credible reports linked him to serious criminal activities, including kidnapping, impersonation, and forgery.
At the time of his arrest, Mugwanya was wearing a UPDF ceremonial green uniform, complete with forged insignia showing the rank of Major. A search led to the recovery of a dummy pistol and a fake military identity card labeled RO/012032 Maj Shaban Mugwanya. He later confessed to masquerading as a UPDF officer since February 2024.
According to UPDF, Mugwanya admitted that his fake authority gave him cover to carry out unlawful activities. These included illegal arrests, debt collection, and handling land disputes for his personal benefit. His actions not only defrauded Ugandans but also risked public safety.
Investigations revealed shocking details. In August 2025, Mugwanya, working with associates identified as Mpanga Brennan Patrick, Kyamanya Peter, and a man called Capt Ivan, kidnapped Mzee Spelito Mubiru from Luwero District. The abduction was reportedly ordered by a woman named Nalwoga Sharon, who paid UGX 3 million to Capt Ivan to facilitate the crime. The victim was held unlawfully for two days before being released.
In addition, Mugwanya’s uniform and forged ID were traced to a tailor named Alex, based at Cooper Complex in Kampala. He allegedly bought the ceremonial suit for UGX 150,000, the insignia of a Major for UGX 60,000, and the forged identity card for UGX 40,000. These items gave him the appearance of military authority he never possessed.
The UPDF further established that Mugwanya often claimed to be a Major attached to State House. In collusion with individuals including police officer PC Seremba Benard, D/Cpl Okirya Moses, and retired Major Jimmy Katende, he conducted illegal arrests and managed land-related disputes while deceiving the public with his fake credentials.
The army has strongly condemned his actions, saying impersonation of military personnel undermines the credibility of the UPDF, endangers lives, and poses a threat to national security. Officials confirmed that Mugwanya has never been part of the UPDF and that his activities were purely criminal.
The public has been urged to remain vigilant and verify the identities of anyone claiming to be a member of the security forces. UPDF emphasized that citizens should immediately report impersonators or suspicious persons to the nearest police station or army unit.
Mugwanya is currently in lawful custody and will soon appear before competent authorities to face charges, including the illegal possession of military items and other criminal offences.
The UPDF reaffirmed its commitment to protecting Ugandans, upholding the rule of law, and ensuring that criminals who tarnish the image of the armed forces are exposed and punished.
