KISORO DISTRICT, UGANDA: 22 AUGUST 2026— Five top officials from the Kisoro District Local Government have been arrested for allegedly running an extortion racket that solicited and received approximately UGX 200 million from desperate job applicants in exchange for district positions.
The joint operation, conducted by the State House Anti-Corruption Unit (SHACU) alongside the Directorate of Criminal Investigations (CID), netted key political leaders and recruitment officers following preliminary inquiries into wide-scale corruption between October and December 2025.
The Suspects in Custody
Hakizimana Amos — Kisoro District Speaker
Nshaka Erastus — Chairperson, District Service Commission (DSC)
Turamuhawe Richard — Member, District Service Commission (DSC)
Mfitumukiza John — District Councillor
Muhanika Alphonse — Alleged broker/middleman
Two additional key suspects managed to evade security forces and remain on the run: Francesca Mugisha, the Secretary to the District Service Commission, and Matata Alex, a local school teacher accused of acting as a broker for the ring.
According to anti-corruption detectives, the syndicate allegedly targeted job seekers by demanding hefty bribes with promises of guaranteeing them public service positions within the district.
SHACU confirmed that investigations are nearing completion, after which the suspects will be arraigned before the Anti-Corruption Court in Kololo to face official corruption charges. Authorities have urged additional victims who paid money to the suspects or any intermediaries to step forward and aid the ongoing prosecution.
