Smart Fraud! Fake State House Boss Arrested In Luwero For Stealing Millions From Wanainchi

Earlier today, the State House Anti-Corruption Unit arraigned Kasule George William, a businessman in Luwero before the Chief Magistrates Court of Luwero on charges of obtaining goods by false pretences.

According to the Unit, the accused has been impersonating different Govt offices including; State House, Office of the President, and Ministry of Lands among others, to obtain millions of money from several victims by falsely pretending that he would help them with their different issues whereas not. He has been remanded until 23/10/2024.

Impersonation under Ugandan law refers to the act of falsely representing oneself as another person, typically with the intent to deceive or commit a crime. The legal framework addressing impersonation is part of Uganda’s broader criminal code, and such acts are generally considered offenses under the Penal Code Act and other related laws.

Key Provisions in Ugandan Laws on Impersonation:

1. Penal Code Act (Cap 120): The Penal Code Act of Uganda contains specific provisions on impersonation:
   • Section 381: Personation in general: This section criminalizes any form of impersonation, where a person assumes the identity of another, whether living or dead, with the intent to deceive or defraud. Conviction under this offense can lead to imprisonment.
   • Section 382: Personation of public officers: It is an offense to impersonate public officials such as police officers, government officials, or persons in positions of authority. The law seeks to protect public trust in these offices and deter fraud or misconduct.
2. Electronic Transactions Act (2011): With the growth of digital technologies, impersonation in online environments is also covered. The Electronic Transactions Act criminalizes cyber impersonation and fraud:
   • Section 25 of the act addresses online impersonation, making it illegal to falsely represent another person through digital platforms (e.g., email, social media) for purposes such as fraud or obtaining financial gain. Offenders can face imprisonment or fines.
3. The Anti-Corruption Act (2009): This act includes provisions that indirectly touch on impersonation, especially where individuals impersonate public officials to extort bribes or gain an unlawful advantage. Impersonation in this context is often linked to fraud and corruption cases, and offenders can face harsh penalties, including jail time.
4. The Computer Misuse Act (2011): This law also addresses impersonation in a digital or electronic context, particularly focusing on cybercrime. Impersonating another person through the use of information and communication technology (ICT) systems, such as hacking into social media accounts or sending fraudulent messages under someone else’s name, is criminalized.
5. Uganda Communications Act (2013): This act touches on crimes related to the misuse of telecommunication systems, including the impersonation of persons or companies in communications made over phone networks or the Internet.