Man Arrested for Impersonating Soldier, Making Inciting Statements on Social Media
KAMPALA – Security agencies have arrested a 20-year-old man, Musana Ivan, for allegedly impersonating a Uganda People’s Defence Forces (UPDF) officer and circulating inflammatory content online.
The arrest followed the viral spread of a video on social media, particularly TikTok, in which Musana is seen wearing military attire and making what authorities have described as “inciting statements.”
According to an official statement, preliminary investigations have definitively established that Musana is not a member of the UPDF. Findings indicate that he falsely presented himself as a military officer during the recording of the video, which was later uploaded to the internet.
“The suspect falsely presented himself as a UPDF officer while recording the video,” the statement read.
Acting on the digital evidence, security personnel tracked down and apprehended Musana in Bukedea District. He is currently detained at Kawempe Police Station as investigations into the full scope of his actions continue.
The legal process is now underway, with the police confirming that the case file will be forwarded to the Office of the Resident State Attorney for perusal and legal advice, paving the way for potential prosecution.
This incident has prompted a strong reminder from the Police, especially with the country approaching the General Elections scheduled for 15th January 2026. Authorities are urging the public to exercise utmost responsibility in their use of social media platforms.
The public is warned that creating or sharing content constituting threats, hate speech, or impersonation of security personnel is a criminal offence. Such actions, as demonstrated in this case, are punishable under the law and will lead to arrest and prosecution.
The arrest underscores the heightened vigilance of security agencies in monitoring online spaces for activities deemed threatening to public order and national security, particularly during the election period.
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