The Uganda Peoples’ Defence Forces (UPDF) has arrested Mugwanya Shaban, who calls himself “Major Shaban,” over allegations of kidnapping, impersonation, and forgery.
According to the army, Mugwanya, who claims to be a businessman engaged in cattle trading, was apprehended on August 27, 2025, at Shell Fuel Station, Kyengera, Wakiso District.
At the time of his arrest, he was reportedly dressed in a UPDF green ceremonial suit adorned with forged insignia purporting to represent the rank of Major.
A search conducted by the army led to the recovery of a dummy pistol and a forged UPDF identity card bearing the details RO/012032 Maj Shaban Mugwanya.
He reportedly admitted to masquerading as a UPDF senior officer since February 2024 and disclosed his involvement in unlawful activities, including illegal arrests, debt recovery, and the handling of land-related matters for personal gain.
Preliminary army findings indicate that in August 2025, Mugwanya, together with Mpanga Brennan Patrick, Kyamanya Peter, and an individual identified as Capt Ivan, kidnapped Mzee Spelito Mubiru from Luwero District.
Mugwanya confessed that the act was carried out on the instructions of Nalwoga Sharon, who allegedly paid Shs3 million to Capt Ivan to facilitate the kidnapping. The victim was unlawfully detained for two days.
He was also found in possession of forged documents and military attire. He revealed that he had purchased the UPDF green ceremonial suit for Shs150,000 and the insignia of a Major for Shs60,000 from a tailor named Alex at Cooper Complex, Kampala. The same tailor reportedly produced the forged UPDF identity card at a cost of Shs40,000. These items were used to falsely confer upon him military authority.
Mugwanya is also said to be an impostor who has been posing as a Major attached to State House. In collusion with certain individuals, including PC Seremba Benard, D/Cpl Okirya Moses, and Maj (Rtd) Jimmy Katende, he is alleged to have conducted illegal arrests and managed land-related disputes for financial gain.
Mugwanya remains in custody and will be presented before the competent authorities to answer charges, including the unlawful possession of items exclusively reserved for the Defence Forces.
