A chilling incident in Mukono District has left the community in shock after a man was kidnapped and later found murdered by individuals believed to be impersonating members of the Uganda People’s Defence Forces (UPDF).
According to police reports, the victim, 45-year-old Wayengera Godfrey, and his wife, Najabi Christine, were abducted on June 10 while returning from a burial in Mbale. The assailants, reportedly dressed in military-style uniforms, identified themselves as UPDF officers and ordered the couple to accompany them, claiming they were being taken to Mukono Police Station.
However, the situation quickly turned sinister. Najabi was later found abandoned and injured in Misindye, Jinja, while her husband was transported to Kyungu Road in Mukono, where he was brutally killed. His body was recovered and taken to Mulago City Mortuary for a post-mortem examination. The vehicle the couple was traveling in—a Toyota Fielder, registration number UBP 520A—was later recovered by authorities.
Police investigations are currently underway, and the suspects remain at large.
Why This Case Has Sparked Outrage
1. Impersonation of Security Forces
The use of fake military identity not only enabled this crime but also threatens public trust in the UPDF and other legitimate security agencies.
2. Brazen Attack in Broad Transit
That the abduction occurred during a routine journey home, in a populated area, has left many Ugandans feeling vulnerable.
3. Growing Concerns Over Impersonations
This incident adds to a growing number of cases involving impersonators using military or police disguises to commit crimes.
4. Gaps in Security and Accountability
The public is questioning how such criminals can operate freely while impersonating security personnel.
Public Reactions and Demands
Citizens are demanding faster action from law enforcement, tighter control over military-style uniforms, and more visible patrols on highways and in vulnerable communities. Many also want the government to launch an immediate public awareness campaign warning against such impersonations.
The case has highlighted an urgent need to restore public confidence and ensure that security systems are robust enough to prevent similar tragedies in the future.
As Mukono mourns, the nation watches closely—waiting for justice to be served.
