Two arrested for possession of counterfeit notes

13 December 2025, 11:14

By Ali lukomo

The territorial police in Bugiri have arrested two suspects who were found in possession of counterfeit currency.

The suspects have been identified as Mutale Ali, 49, a resident of Nawanyingi in Iganga District, and Kyemba Allan, 32, a resident of Walugogo in Iganga Municipality. They were arrested during an intelligence-led operation.

Police say that on 12 December 2025, Wazenda Betty, 46, a resident of Mugona Village, Ndifakulya Parish, Kapyanga Sub county in Bugiri District, reported that two unidentified men had given her counterfeit Ugandan currency notes worth approximately three million shillings. The suspects allegedly promised to give her more money as part of the scheme.

Following the report, an operation was mounted, leading to the successful arrest of the suspects. At the time of arrest, they were travelling in a Toyota Premio, registration number UAN 003Y. The vehicle was searched, and items of evidential value were recovered.

Preliminary investigations indicate that the suspects are allegedly part of a wider counterfeit currency racket operating within the Busoga sub-region and beyond. Police further state that the suspects have been linked to similar criminal activities in Iganga, Bugweri and Bugiri districts, where unsuspecting business people have reportedly been defrauded.

Further investigations are ongoing to identify and apprehend additional suspects.

Police have cautioned members of the public to remain vigilant and avoid falling victim to counterfeit currency scams, noting that fake notes may closely resemble genuine currency.