Security agencies have reportedly renewed efforts to locate Busobozi Richard, a National Unity Platform (NUP) mobiliser from Hoima, amid ongoing investigations into alleged bomb-making activities and other criminal matters linked to the opposition party.

 

The renewed search reportedly involves the Criminal Investigations Directorate (CID), the Chieftaincy of Military Intelligence (CMI) and the Uganda Police Force. Security personnel are said to have been provided with Busobozi’s photograph to assist in efforts to establish his whereabouts.

 

However, despite the renewed operation, Busobozi has not been located or arrested, according to the account provided.

 

The case dates back to a period of heightened security operations following the 2020/2021 election period, when several NUP members, supporters and mobilisers were arrested in connection with various allegations.

 

Arrest During 2021 Bomb Investigations

 

Busobozi’s case came to prominence during investigations into a series of bomb attacks in Kampala in October and November 2021. At the time, security authorities attributed the attacks to the Allied Democratic Forces (ADF).

 

During the investigations, Busobozi, who was identified as an NUP mobiliser from Hoima, was reportedly arrested alongside Sharif Higenyi, described as a gatekeeper at NUP leader Robert Kyagulanyi Ssentamu’s home in Magere, and an electrician.

 

Sharif was subsequently released after spending several weeks in detention, while investigations involving Busobozi reportedly continued.

 

Allegations of Torture

 

In an account attributed to Busobozi, he alleged that he was beaten and interrogated while in detention.

 

He further alleged that former CMI chief Gen. Abel Kandiho and then Commander of Land Forces, now Chief of Defence Forces Gen. Muhoozi Kainerugaba, were involved in his interrogation.

 

According to his account, interrogators repeatedly questioned him about what they referred to as “Plan B” and allegedly asked whether NUP leader Kyagulanyi had used him to manufacture explosives intended for attacks in Kampala.

 

Busobozi also claimed that he lost consciousness after the alleged beating and later regained consciousness in a bush along the Masaka Road. He said he found two other men who were dead and was later assisted by a boda-boda rider who helped him access medical treatment.

 

The allegations have not been independently established in the account provided.

 

Wider Security Operations

 

The renewed search comes against the backdrop of broader security operations targeting NUP members, supporters and mobilisers during and after the 2020 presidential election campaign.

 

On December 30, 2020, security agencies arrested several members of Kyagulanyi’s campaign team in Kalangala. Those arrested included his bodyguards Eddie Mutwe and Anthony Agaba, popularly known as Bobi Young, alongside dozens of others. They were subsequently charged before the General Court Martial over alleged unlawful possession of ammunition.

 

Other NUP-related cases during the period involved individuals who were reportedly arrested, went missing or were found unconscious. Among those mentioned in various accounts are John Bosco Kibalama and Damulila John.

 

Some NUP supporters were also investigated over activities including wearing clothing alleged to resemble military uniforms.

 

Search Continues

 

Security agencies are now reportedly seeking to locate Busobozi as investigations into the alleged fabrication of explosive devices and activities linked to NUP continue.

 

As of the latest information available in the account, the renewed search had not resulted in his arrest.

 

The circumstances surrounding Busobozi’s current whereabouts remain unclear, while the allegations made in connection with his detention and interrogation remain matters requiring independent verification.