156 arrested over forged papers to join UPDF
CAPTION: Some of the suspects arrested in Budaka and Kagadi districts for presenting forged academic documents on Thursday August 14th 2025. (Courtsey Photo).
By Our reporter
Over 150 people have been arrested in different parts of the country for attempting to fraudulently join the Uganda People’s Defence Forces (UPDF) during the just-concluded recruitment exercise.
Maj. Isaac Oware, the Public Relations Officer for the UPDF 3rd Infantry Division, says the suspects were arrested between August 11th and 14th in the districts of Bukwo, Kween, and Kapchorwa.
According to Oware, the suspects are accused of presenting forged academic documents and attempting to bribe recruitment officers in a bid to secure slots in the national army.
Maj. Oware said the exercise attracted a high number of applicants, many of whom were enthusiastic and physically fit but failed to meet the required academic and procedural standards.
“We are only here to recruit authentic applicants who meet the required standards. Those who have been arrested for presenting forged documents or attempting to bribe recruitment officers will be handled by the police,” Oware said.
Fredmark Chesang, the Sipi Region Police Spokesperson, confirmed the arrests and said investigations are ongoing.
“Many of the youth were simply unaware of the correct recruitment procedures. Some did not understand the new system, which includes online registration and presentation of valid documents,” Col. Tumuranzye said. He added, “We urge district security committees, especially those led by the Resident District Commissioners, to intensify community sensitisation ahead of future recruitments.”
The UPDF conducts annual recruitment across the country to bolster its ranks.
However, the process has often been marred by fraud, impersonation, and corruption issues that are particularly pronounced in regions struggling with high youth unemployment.
Security agencies have warned members of the public against engaging in or facilitating fraudulent practices during national recruitment exercises. They say such acts undermine national security and will not be tolerated.
Police and UPDF officials have pledged to continue working closely to ensure that only qualified, disciplined, and eligible candidates are recruited into the national army.
By Our reporter
BUDAKA – At least fifty-six people were arrested
Iin Budaka and Kagadi districts 56 people were arrest similarly for presenting forged academic documents.
They were arrested on Thursday at Budaka District Headquarters for presenting forged papers in the Bukedi region.
At Budaka District Headquarters, Brig Gen Michael Ssozi Ssesanga, who is overseeing the recruitment, urged applicants to present only original academic papers, stressing that the process is running smoothly. He warned that anyone attempting to cheat the system would face arrest.
He commended local leaders for their support and cooperation in ensuring a transparent recruitment process.
In Kagadi the arrests followed verification of the original documents presented by candidates.
The group, comprising 11 men and two women, presented fake Primary Leaving Examination (PLE) slips, forged Uganda Certificate of Education (UCE) certificates, falsified testimonials for those who allegedly sat Senior Four in 2024, and counterfeit identification cards.
Kagadi Resident District Commissioner (RDC) Nanshemeza Caroline condemned the act, describing it as unnecessary given the availability of free primary and secondary education in Uganda. “Presenting fake academic documents is a crime in this country. Why resort to such actions when we have free education? I urge parents and guardians to take advantage of government programmes to ensure their children receive the education they need,” she said.
The suspects have been handed over to the police for investigation.
Captain Wilson Kato Agaba, Public Information Officer for UPDF Recruitment Team 5 in the Bunyoro Region, warned against attempting to cheat the process.
“We have a professional and dedicated screening team that can easily detect forged academic documents. Don’t risk bringing them to the recruitment centre,” he cautioned.
Out of 88 shortlisted candidates, 61 including four females, were successfully recruited in Kagadi. The recruitment team will move to Kibaale District before concluding the exercise in Kakumiro District later this week.
Meanwhile, newly enlisted Uganda Peoples’ Defence Forces (UPDF) personnel in the Karamoja Sub-region have been urged to uphold discipline, patriotism, and healthy lifestyles as they prepare to begin training. The call came as the army concluded a ten-day recruitment exercise across seven districts.
At various recruitment centres, District Resident Commissioners (RDCs), LC V chairpersons, and municipal mayors encouraged the successful applicants to remain committed to national service. “I urge you to uphold discipline as the foundation of your success,” said Kotido RDC, Mr Icogor Charles.
In Amudat, RDC Mr Okori Denis advised recruits to safeguard their health and steer clear of alcohol, smoking, and promiscuity, warning that such habits could undermine their future. “Ensure that you are healthy to avoid becoming a liability to yourself and the government,” he said.
Moroto Municipality Mayor, Hon Ismail Mohammed, urged the recruits to embody patriotic values and to represent their districts with pride during and after training.
Recognising the unique challenges in Karamoja, local leaders appealed for some applicants to be considered under affirmative action, a request that was granted, resulting in their enlistment.
The leaders also advised young people to prioritise education, keep their original academic documents, and present them when required to avoid missing out on both government and private sector opportunities. They expressed appreciation to the UPDF leadership for providing avenues for educated and able-bodied youth to join the army.
In Alebtong district, Deputy Resident District Commissioner (RDC) Mr Matthias Lutwama, called on newly selected recruits to embrace discipline, teamwork, and respect for authority as they prepare to begin training.
“Team spirit is very important. Work with your colleagues, respect your superiors in the UPDF, and cooperate with your brothers and sisters. This will make the training easier for you,” Mr Lutwama said, noting that the UPDF carries forward the legacy of the National Resistance Army.
He told the recruits they would undergo intensive training aimed at shaping them into some of the finest patrol forces in Uganda and across Africa.
In Alebtong District, 145 candidates were shortlisted, with 86 successfully recruited. Among them were 74 male and nine female regulars, along with three professionals.
In neighbouring Otuke District, 44 candidates were shortlisted, with 20 making the final cut. Of the remainder, two lacked original documents, one presented a forged ID, another submitted forged papers, and one had a mismatch of names. All 20 successful recruits were male regulars.
In Lira successful candidates have been urged to uphold discipline, integrity, and dedication to national service.
The appeal was made by Lira Resident District Commissioner (RDC) Mrs Eyal Lilian while addressing recruits at the Mayor’s Garden in Lira City. She reminded them that their foremost duty is to protect the lives and property of Ugandans. “Security of the people and their property is key in our hearts. That is why we recruit you – to help keep Uganda secure and, if need be, serve in other countries,” she said.
Mrs Eyal emphasised that the recruitment process is highly rigorous, with health and discipline assessments determining eligibility. She warned against bribery, stressing that the exercise is free, fair, and transparent, with zero tolerance for corruption.
She also urged candidates to accept the outcome with humility. “If your calling is to join us, you will succeed today. If not, you will remain behind and that is still a success,” she added.
A total of 108 candidates were recruited from Lira City and Lira District, comprising 94 males, five regular recruits, and nine professionals.
