The Uganda police, through the Directorate of Criminal Investigation Department (DCID), have kicked off a special crackdown on a new racket of fraudsters behind imposter phone calls in the country.

The police said these fraudsters are masterminding a series of phone calls to impersonate or masquerade as VIPs, prominent government personnel, or business persons, billing officers at utility companies for electricity, water, etc.

SCP Fred Enanga, the police spokesperson, said that several members of the public have experienced a deluge of imposter calls for wedding contributions, utility bills, and donations.

In a statement issued on Monday, May 20, 2024, Enanga cautioned the public and urged them to remain vigilant and carry out due diligence.

“Interrogate further the caller, reach out in person to the intended beneficiary, or call them on their real phone numbers; avoid calls with follow-up persons; and report any suspicious phone calls asking for a contribution, fundraising, or donations to the nearest police,” Enanga said.

He said that the Directorate of CID is using all available tools and resources to track and crack down on the imposter call racket to protect members of the public from schemes that result in cash fraud and losses.

“Anyone who exploits innocent citizens using deceptive practices like imposter fraud should know that, regardless of where they are, they will not go undetected. We will find them and hold them accountable for their fraudulent practices,” police warned.

In 2023, a joint campaign code named Beera Steady Be Better was launched to counter fraudster phone calls in the country.

The campaign comprises agencies including telecom company providers, the Internal Security Organization (ISO), and the Uganda Communications Commission (UCC), among others, and it has ignited a sense of community awareness and empowerment, arming them with the knowledge and courage to protect themselves against fraudulent activities.

The fact that this campaign has resonated so deeply and yielded tangible results is a testament to the power of media in driving positive change. It is a reminder of how a collective effort, fueled by information and a shared sense of purpose, can transform lives and uplift a nation.