Mayuge, Uganda: Police in Busoga East Region have arrested at least 42 suspects in a joint disruptive operation targeting robbery gangs and counterfeit currency dealers operating in Igeyero village, Baitambogwe Sub-county in Mayuge District.
The operation, conducted on Wednesday, March 11, 2026, followed a surge in complaints from residents about fraudulent currency deals, robberies and violent attacks linked to criminal groups operating in the area.
According to the Regional Police Spokesperson, Mr Michael Kasadha, the arrests were made after security agencies received intelligence reports indicating that the suspects were involved in counterfeit US dollar scams and robbery schemes targeting unsuspecting members of the public.
“Following reports of robberies and issuance of counterfeit currency in areas of Igeyero in Baitambogwe Sub-county, a joint operation was conducted and 42 suspects apprehended,” Kasadha said in a statement on Thursday.
Fake dollar deals used to trap victims
Police investigations indicate that the suspects lured victims into fraudulent deals involving the purchase of produce, cattle and counterfeit foreign currency, particularly fake US dollars.
Authorities say victims were often invited to meet the suspects for what appeared to be lucrative currency exchange deals. “A number of people have been lured into fraudulent deals in the form of buying produce, cattle and counterfeit currency, especially US dollar counterfeits,” Kasadha said.
However, once the victims arrived at the agreed meeting points, they were reportedly attacked and robbed of their money and valuables.
One of the victims, Muwereza Bob from Iganga, told DailyExpress that he lost Shs3 million after falling victim to the counterfeit currency scheme.
“I received a call from someone I know very well telling me that there was a US dollar exchange deal that looked profitable,” Muwereza said. “I withdrew Shs3 million and proceeded to the meeting point, only to realise later that the dollars I received were fake.”
Police say the criminal activities have been reported in several areas across the Busoga region, particularly in Igeyero in Mayuge District and Kawete in neighbouring Iganga District.
Kasadha said security agencies are continuing investigations to dismantle the wider criminal network behind the operations. “Efforts to trace other suspects are underway,” he said.
Authorities have urged members of the public to remain vigilant and report suspicious activities to security authorities.
The warning comes after several community members complained of being defrauded and robbed during fake currency exchange transactions.
Authorities say cooperation between communities and security agencies will be critical in eliminating such criminal networks in the region.
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