Buganda Road Chief Magistrate’s Court has remanded three individuals — a 24-year-old man and two minors — over allegations of impersonating renowned businessman and philanthropist Dr. Hamis Kiggundu and defrauding members of the public through a sophisticated social media scam.
The accused, Master Don Sharif (24), and two teenagers aged 16 and 17, appeared before Chief Magistrate Ronald Kayizi and denied all charges. Sharif was sent to Luzira Prison, while the minors were remanded to Naguru Juvenile Remand Home until October 20, 2025.
Prosecution told court that the trio ran a network of fake TikTok, Facebook, and WhatsApp accounts, posing as Dr. Kiggundu or his associates under the Ham Group of Companies. They allegedly promised unsuspecting victims jobs, youth loans, school sponsorships, and other financial opportunities — conning them out of millions of shillings.
Investigations indicate that all three suspects hail from Iganga District in the Busoga sub-region, which security agencies have flagged as a growing hub for cyber-related fraud. Authorities revealed that this is the sixth impersonation case involving Dr. Kiggundu’s name this year alone.
Speaking to journalists, Ham Group Public Relations Officer Karim Sserugo urged Ugandans to remain vigilant:
“We want to make it clear that Dr. Hamis Kiggundu and the Ham Group do not operate any youth loan, bursary, or cash support schemes. Anyone claiming to represent us in such activities is a con artist. Always verify information using our official platforms.”
Security officials have since warned that online impersonation and cyber scams are becoming rampant, undermining public trust in legitimate businesses and charitable projects.
As the suspects await trial, the case underscores Uganda’s mounting challenge with online fraudsters, many of whom exploit the fame of well-known personalities to prey on desperate jobseekers and youth.
