Bugweri Accountant Arrested over Alleged Impersonation, Extortion

By Barasa Richard

Police in Iganga District have arrested one it identified as Mugabi Emmanuel, assistant accountant at Bugweri Town Council, over allegations that he impersonated as an assistant to the Iganga Municipality Resident District Commissioner (RDC) and solicited money from headteachers and other civil servants.

According to a police statement issued on October 13, 2026, Mugabi is suspected of posing as Nabala Tonny and demanding between Shs100,000 and Shs300,000 from civil servants in exchange for promises to have cases dismissed or facilitate other purported official activities.

Complaint Leads to Arrest

Nabala reported the matter to police after learning that an unidentified individual was allegedly using his identity to contact civil servants by telephone.

Police identified Mugabi as the suspect and alleged that he used telephone number 0709420831 to make the calls.

Mugabi, a resident of Bugabwe Village in Nakigo Sub-county, Iganga District, is suspected of contacting civil servants in Iganga, Bugweri and other parts of the Busoga sub-region.

According to the police statement, some of those reportedly contacted were civil servants under investigation as part of an ongoing anti-corruption initiative.

The case was registered under reference number GEF 36/2026 at Iganga Central Police Station, where statements were recorded. Information gathered by a task force subsequently led to Mugabi's arrest.

Extent of Alleged Scheme Unclear

Preliminary police findings reportedly indicate that several civil servants had been contacted. However, it remains unclear whether any money was paid or how many individuals may have been affected.

Nabala, whose identity was allegedly used in the calls, has distanced himself from the demands.

Police Call on Potential Victims to Report

Mugabi was being held at Iganga Central Police Station pending further inquiries.

Police indicated that the allegations could result in charges relating to impersonation and obtaining money by false pretences. However, the available information does not confirm whether he has been formally charged.

Headteachers and other civil servants who may have received suspicious calls or lost money are encouraged to report to Iganga Central Police Station and record statements.

Members of the public are also advised to verify requests for money through official government channels before making payments, particularly when such requests are linked to investigations, administrative decisions or other public services.