Top Story: Over 100 Arrested in Sebei for Attempting to Fraudulently Join UPDF
Sebei Sub-Region, Uganda – August 18, 2025
Security forces have arrested more than 100 individuals in the Sebei sub-region for attempting to fraudulently enlist in the Uganda People’s Defence Forces (UPDF) during the recently concluded national recruitment exercise.
The arrests, which occurred between August 11 and 14 across the districts of Bukwo, Kween, and Kapchorwa, were confirmed by Maj. Isaac Oware, spokesperson for the UPDF 3rd Infantry Division.
According to Maj. Oware, the suspects were caught presenting forged academic documents and trying to bribe recruitment officers. “We are only here to recruit authentic applicants who meet the required standards,” he stated. “Those who have been arrested will be dealt with by the police in accordance with the law.”
Fredmark Chesang, spokesperson for the Sipi Region Police, confirmed ongoing investigations. “Some suspects have been released on police bond, while others remain in custody. We are working to determine whether these individuals acted independently or were part of a larger network,” Chesang said.
Col. Steven Mashareka Tumuranzye, who led the recruitment exercise in Sebei, attributed the high number of fraud cases to limited public awareness. He noted that many applicants were unfamiliar with the recently introduced online registration system and failed to provide valid documentation.
Col. Tumuranzye urged district security committees and resident district commissioners to step up community sensitization ahead of future recruitment drives to prevent similar incidents.
While UPDF recruitment exercises are held annually across the country, they are often plagued by irregularities, particularly in regions grappling with high youth unemployment. The UPDF has reiterated its zero-tolerance stance on fraud and corruption, warning that such acts not only compromise the integrity of the recruitment process but also threaten national security.
