Security agencies have arrested a group of cyber fraudsters who were impersonating Mrs. Natasha Museveni Karugire to cheat members of the public. The suspects used fake TikTok and WhatsApp accounts created in her name, complete with her photographs, to deceive unsuspecting people online. The arrests followed investigations into a growing number of complaints from victims who had lost money after seeking help through social media.
According to police spokesperson @mkituuma, the criminals closely monitored Mrs. Natasha Museveni Karugire’s social media accounts, especially TikTok. They specifically targeted followers who were publicly or privately requesting financial assistance. Once identified, the suspects created multiple WhatsApp accounts using different phone numbers but displayed Mrs. Karugire’s photo to appear genuine and trustworthy.
The fraudsters then contacted the victims, pretending to be Mrs. Natasha Museveni Karugire herself. When victims explained their financial challenges, the suspects promised assistance but demanded a so-called “registration fee” or “processing charge” before help could be given. The amount demanded depended on how much money the victim was requesting. Victims were directed to send the money to specific phone numbers provided by the fraudsters.
Through this method, several individuals were defrauded of varying amounts of money. Acting on intelligence, security agencies conducted an operation in Iganga Municipality, where four suspects were arrested. The suspects have been identified as Isabirye Ashiraf, Mulondo Rahman, Kakaire Zubair, and Egesa Sharif. During the arrest, police recovered several mobile phones and numerous SIM cards believed to have been used in the scam.
The suspects are currently being held in custody and will soon be taken to court to face charges related to cyber fraud and impersonation. Police have emphasized that investigations are still ongoing and more suspects may be arrested as efforts continue to dismantle the criminal network.
Security agencies have strongly warned the public against sending money to individuals online who demand registration fees, processing charges, or advance payments in exchange for financial assistance, jobs, visas, scholarships, or similar opportunities. The police stress that genuine service providers and reputable individuals do not ask for upfront payments through social media platforms.
Members of the public have been urged to remain vigilant, verify all offers using official and known contacts, and avoid trusting private messages from unknown numbers. Police also encourage anyone who encounters suspicious online activity or fake accounts to report immediately to the nearest police station. Authorities say public cooperation is key in the fight against the growing threat of online crime.
