Police in Mpigi District have arrested a 28-year-old TikTok user accused of posting content containing alleged insults, threats and derogatory remarks targeting President Yoweri Museveni and members of his family.
The suspect, identified as Lawrence Kyambade, was arrested after a police manhunt following the circulation of a video allegedly shared on his TikTok account.
According to police, the video attracted the attention of security authorities because of the language and statements allegedly directed towards President Museveni and Chief of Defence Forces Gen Muhoozi Kainerugaba.
Police claim Kyambade used abusive and offensive language against the leaders in the video, prompting investigations into the content and circumstances surrounding its publication.
Authorities allege that in the video, the suspect expressed anger towards President Museveni and made statements involving the President, First Lady Janet Kataaha Museveni and Gen Muhoozi.
Police further allege that some of the remarks in the video included statements wishing death upon President Museveni and his supporters.
The suspect is also accused of making comments about the relationship between President Museveni, the Banyankole community and the Buganda Kingdom.
According to police, Kyambade allegedly claimed that Museveni and Muhoozi had intentions of weakening or destroying the Buganda Kingdom.
After the video came to the attention of security authorities, police launched a search for the suspect in different areas of Mpigi District.
Kyambade was later arrested from the Kalongero area of Nabitete Parish, Buwama Sub-county, according to police reports.
Following his arrest, police said the suspect appeared confused when he was brought to Buwama Police Station.
Authorities said Kyambade allegedly gave officers different names during questioning, including names of opposition leader Robert Kyagulanyi Sentamu, Gen Muhoozi Kainerugaba and former President Idi Amin Dada.
Katonga Regional Police spokesperson Lydia Tumushabe confirmed the arrest and said investigations were ongoing to establish the truth behind the allegations.
She said police were working to determine the circumstances, motive and intentions behind the alleged TikTok posts.
“We arrested him and our investigations are still ongoing until we establish the truth and his intentions,” Tumushabe said.
Police warned members of the public, especially young social media users, against using digital platforms to spread content that violates the law.
Authorities said people who misuse social media by making threats, spreading harmful content or committing offences online would be held accountable.
The arrest has renewed discussions about responsible use of social media platforms and the balance between freedom of expression and legal limits.
Many Ugandans continue to debate the role of platforms such as TikTok, Facebook and X in political discussions and public criticism.
As investigations continue, police have not yet announced whether the suspect will face charges or what further action will be taken after the inquiry.
The case adds to growing concerns among authorities over online content and the need for social media users to understand the consequences of their posts.
