Police in Mpigi District have arrested a 28-year-old man accused of posting a TikTok video containing alleged insults, threats and derogatory remarks directed at President Yoweri Museveni and members of his family.
The suspect has been identified as Lawrence Kyambade, who was reportedly arrested after security authorities traced him following the circulation of a video allegedly posted on his TikTok account.
According to police, the video contained abusive and derogatory statements targeting President Museveni and General Muhoozi Kainerugaba, the Chief of Defence Forces.
Authorities allege that Kyambade expressed anger towards the President and made statements referring to First Lady Janet Kataaha Museveni and Muhoozi.
Police further claim that the suspect made remarks wishing death upon Museveni and his supporters and allegedly called on the President’s supporters to die alongside him.
The suspect is also accused of making statements about the Banyankole community and alleging that Museveni and Muhoozi were planning to undermine and destroy the Buganda Kingdom.
After the alleged video came to the attention of security authorities, police launched a manhunt for Kyambade.
He was eventually arrested in the Kalongero area of Nabitete Parish, located in Buwama Sub-county, Mpigi District.
Police said Kyambade appeared confused after being taken to Buwama Police Station and allegedly gave officers different names during questioning.
According to the authorities, he reportedly mentioned the names of National Unity Platform president Robert Kyagulanyi Sentamu, Muhoozi Kainerugaba and former President Idi Amin Dada at different points.
Katonga Regional Police spokesperson Lydia Tumushabe confirmed that the suspect had been arrested and said investigations were still ongoing.
Tumushabe said investigators were working to establish the circumstances surrounding the alleged posts as well as the suspect’s intentions.
“We arrested him and our investigations are still ongoing until we establish the truth and his intentions,” Tumushabe said.
She also warned people against misusing social media platforms, stressing that individuals who use the internet to commit offences could be arrested and face the law.
Police have consequently urged social media users, especially young people, to exercise caution when creating and sharing content online.
The arrest comes as authorities continue to monitor social media activity involving alleged threats, abusive language and other content they believe may constitute offences under Ugandan law.
Investigations into the case are continuing, and police are expected to establish the next course of action after completing their inquiries.
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