MUKONO. Police in Naggalama, Mukono District, have arrested three men accused of masquerading as pastors during and traditional healers at night .
Through during they trio has defrauded members of the public in an elaborate scam that targeted residents seeking healing and wealth.
According to police, the suspects—Kakumba Ali, also known as Dalausi or Dr. Lubwama; Kijjoma Nasser; and Walusimbi Michael—were part of a criminal gang that posed as herbalists offering miraculous healing and money-multiplication services.
The suspects reportedly advertised their services on local radio stations, claiming to cure various illnesses and offering phone numbers for consultations. Victims who reached out were invited to rented houses around Kampala, where the suspects conducted fake “healing sessions.”
Police say the gang later directed clients to remote locations in Kiijo Village, Nabale Ward, Nakifuma–Nagalama Town Council, and Nanfumba Village, Mayangayanga Parish, Kimenyedde Sub-County, where they were ambushed, assaulted, and robbed of their money and valuables.
“The suspects pretended to bless money, claiming they could turn Ugandan shillings into U.S. dollars. Many victims lost their life savings, and the fraudsters would switch off their phones and disappear,” said Luke Owoyesigyire, Deputy Spokesperson for Kampala Metropolitan Police.
Following several complaints from victims, police conducted an operation leading to the arrest of the three suspects, who have since confessed to participating in several similar scams.
Recovered exhibits include mobile phones, SIM cards, land sale agreements, and other documents believed to have been used in the fraudulent activities.
Owoyesigyire cautioned the public to be vigilant against individuals advertising “miraculous” healing or wealth-creation services, saying such schemes are designed to defraud unsuspecting people.
“We urge members of the public to avoid dealing with self-proclaimed traditional healers who promise quick riches or supernatural healing. These are criminal schemes intended to steal money,” he said.
Police have launched a manhunt for other suspects believed to be part of the network and have called on victims to report to the nearest police station for further investigation.