Police at Jinja Road have arrested and detained three people over allegations of publishing fake news and unlawfully obtaining or disclosing personal data through social media platforms.
The suspects, according to Uganda Police Force, are Mayiga Ronald, also known as Munyarwanda Wwa Bobi; Kakaire Swaibu, alias One One UG; and Mugoya Mark.
Police said the alleged offences stem from activities carried out on social media in July 2026, although the force did not immediately disclose the specific posts, accounts or individuals allegedly targeted.
The three suspects are currently being held at Jinja Road Police Station and are expected to be produced before court to face charges arising from the investigation.
The arrests signal an increasingly aggressive approach by law enforcement towards the use of social media to circulate information that authorities consider false, as well as the unauthorised acquisition or disclosure of people’s personal information.
Kamapala Motropolitan Police spokesperson Rachael Kawala said the suspects are being investigated for alleged offences involving the publication of fake news and unlawful obtaining or disclosure of personal data.
The force has also warned social media users against using digital platforms to spread unverified information or expose other people’s private information without lawful authority.
“Members of the public are reminded to use social media platforms responsibly and to respect the privacy and personal data of others,” police said.
The arrests come amid growing scrutiny of Uganda’s rapidly expanding social-media space, where individuals, bloggers and online publishers can reach large audiences almost instantly.
However, the police allegations against the three suspects remain just that—allegations—and their guilt or innocence will ultimately be determined by a court of law.
Police have not yet provided details on the evidence gathered against each suspect, the alleged victims, or the specific social-media content at the centre of the case.
The suspects are expected to have their day in court as investigators move to formally present the allegations and evidence against them.
