Less than a day after social media erupted with claims that National Unity Platform (NUP) supporter Ssetuba Derrick had been violently abducted near Lugogo Mall, police have revealed that he was actually arrested lawfully on Sunday.
Kampala Metropolitan Police deputy spokesperson ASP Luke Owoyesigyire confirmed that Ssetuba has been held at Kabalagala Police Station since his arrest on charges of obtaining money by false pretences. He is accused of defrauding Namara Omuhereza to the tune of UGX 8 million.
Contrary to the widely shared reports of abduction, ASP Owoyesigyire notes that Ssetuba was not kidnapped but is in lawful police custody as part of an ongoing investigation.
Since news of the arrest broke, two additional victims have come forward, accusing Ssetuba of similar fraudulent activities. Police say they will investigate all allegations thoroughly before forwarding the case file to the Office of the Resident State Attorney for further legal action.
The arrest has stirred strong reactions within opposition circles. NUP president Robert Kyagulanyi alias Bobi Wine posted on social media about a “violent abduction” of Ssetuba and linked it to a disturbing trend of disappearances, including that of Dr. Robert Luggya Kayingo.
Similarly, NUP’s Hon. Kabuye Frank claimed that the arrest was politically motivated, pointing out Ssetuba’s declared interest in contesting for the parliamentary seat in Buyaga East.
However, police have dismissed the claims, insisting the case is strictly criminal and unrelated to politics.
As investigations continue, the public awaits further updates on the case, while the political temperature remains high amid Uganda’s charged opposition climate.
