The Kampala Metropolitan South Police have arrested a 53-year-old businesswoman on allegations of impersonation and obtaining money by false pretences after she allegedly posed as an official from the Office of the President and defrauded a Member of Parliament of Shs60 million.
The suspect, identified as Hope Tumwebaze, is a resident of Kamukuzi in Mbarara City.
Addressing journalists at Police Headquarters in Naguru on Monday, Police spokesperson Kituuma Rusoke said the suspect allegedly misrepresented herself as an official attached to the Office of the President.
Preliminary investigations indicate that between June 2025 and subsequent months, Tumwebaze approached the MP at various locations in Kampala, claiming she could facilitate access to government funds allegedly earmarked for selected districts.
“Relying on these representations, the complainant reportedly transferred a total of Shs60 million to the suspect,” Rusoke said.
He added that a General Enquiry File (GEF) was opened, leading to the suspect’s arrest.
“She remains in police custody as investigations continue to establish the full circumstances of the alleged fraud and determine whether additional victims or accomplices are involved,” he added.
Rusoke urged the public to always verify claims of government-related facilitation through the appropriate official channels before making financial commitments.
“The Uganda Police Force cautions the public, particularly leaders, public officials, and stakeholders, to verify any claims of government-related facilitation through the appropriate official channels before making financial commitments,” he said.
He also appealed to members of the public to promptly report suspected cases of impersonation or fraud to the nearest police station.
