Police in Kampala have arrested a man accused of impersonating senior police officers in an elaborate phone scam targeting prominent businesspeople.

The suspect, identified as Pius Elangu Eride, allegedly posed as high-ranking officers, including Superintendent of Police (SP) Patrick Opio, the Divisional Police Commander of Jinja Road Police Division.

He reportedly used mobile number 0762 834001 to contact victims, presenting himself in an official capacity to gain their trust.

According to police, Elangu contacted several individuals including Vincent Wei, Managing Director of CHINT Uganda; Lorren Nanshemeza of Lakhan Auto Centre; and businessman David Kakonge from the Industrial Area under false pretenses.

He is accused of soliciting money from these victims and instructing them to send funds to mobile number 0702 599905.

Kampala Metropolitan Police spokesperson SSP Patrick Onyango confirmed Elangu’s arrest and stated that his mobile device has been confiscated and sent for forensic analysis as part of ongoing investigations.

Some identities of the impersonated officers are being withheld for security reasons.

Police are urging anyone who may have received suspicious calls or sent money to the numbers mentioned to report to Jinja Road Police Station.

SSP Onyango also warned the public to remain vigilant and verify the identities of anyone claiming to be government officials, especially in cases involving requests for money. He emphasized that legitimate officers do not solicit funds from citizens in this manner.

Investigations are still underway.

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