Three Arrested for Impersonating Businessman Ham Kiggundu in Online Scam

The Buganda Road Chief Magistrate’s Court has remanded three individuals — a 24-year-old man and two minors — accused of impersonating renowned businessman and philanthropist Dr. Hamis Kiggundu to defraud the public via social media.

The suspects, identified as Master Don Sharif (24) and two juveniles aged 16 and 17, appeared before Magistrate Ronald Kayizi, where they denied the charges.

Sharif was sent to Luzira Prison, while the two minors were remanded to Naguru Juvenile Remand Home until October 20, 2025.

According to prosecutors, the trio allegedly ran fake accounts on TikTok, Facebook, and WhatsApp, pretending to be Dr. Kiggundu and representatives of the Ham Group of Companies. They reportedly lured victims with promises of jobs, youth loans, scholarships, and other financial opportunities, defrauding them of millions of shillings.

Investigations revealed that all three suspects are from Iganga District in the Busoga sub-region, an area authorities say has become a hub for cybercrime. Previous impersonation cases were also traced to the same district.

This is the sixth case this year involving suspects accused of impersonating Dr. Kiggundu.

Speaking for the Ham Group of Companies, Public Relations Officer Karim Sserugo warned the public to be cautious.

> “Dr. Hamis Kiggundu and the Ham Group of Companies do not operate loan schemes, youth support programs, or school fee initiatives. Anyone claiming otherwise is a fraudster. The public should always verify information through our official platforms,” Sserugo said.

Authorities have urged citizens to exercise caution when engaging with online offers and to report suspicious activity to law enforcement. They emphasized that cyber fraud and impersonation not only put personal savings at risk but also undermine trust in legitimate business and charitable efforts.

As the suspects await trial, the case highlights Uganda’s ongoing challenge with cybercrime and online impersonation, a growing trend where fraudsters exploit the identities of high-profile figures for financial gain.