LIRA CITY, UGANDA – A joint security operation by the Territorial Police in Lira City East Division and the Uganda People's Defence Forces (UPDF) has led to the arrest of four suspects allegedly found in possession of counterfeit currency and materials used to produce fake notes.
The operation, conducted on 11th July 2026 at approximately 4:00 p.m., targeted Agenda 501 Hotel in Ireda Agali Cell, Ireda East Ward, Lira City East Division. According to police, the raid was carried out following intelligence-led information.
The four suspects have been identified as: Magambo Bashir, 55, a resident of California Village, Kyankende Sub-county, Kiryandongo District,Epieu David, 43, a resident of Amuria District.,Ebulu Emmanuel, 46, a resident of Kapelebyong District and Omuria Abdu, 40, a resident of Soroti City.
Police also confirmed that one individual initially detained is now assisting investigations as an informant.
During the operation, security personnel recovered suspected counterfeit UGX 50,000 notes with a total face value of UGX 3,000,000. In addition, various chemicals and materials believed to be intended for the production of counterfeit currency were seized from the scene.
A case of alleged possession of counterfeit currency has been formally registered at Lira City East Division Police Station.
Authorities have documented the scene, recorded statements from witnesses, and detained the four suspects as investigations continue. The recovered exhibits are scheduled to be submitted to the Bank of Uganda Currency Centre in Lira on Monday, 13th July 2026, for forensic examination and analysis.
In a stern warning to the public, Police Spokesperson for the North Kyoga Region, SP Patrick Jimmy Okema, cautioned against any involvement in the manufacture, possession, circulation, or use of counterfeit currency, describing these as serious criminal offences.
"Anyone with information regarding such activities is encouraged to report it to the nearest Police station," Okema stated.
The suspects are expected to appear in court once investigations are concluded and forensic reports are received from the Bank of Uganda.
