Power grid terrorism charges have led to the remand of 17 suspects to Luzira Prison after their alleged involvement in a widespread vandalism network targeting electricity infrastructure in Uganda. Authorities accuse them of sabotaging the national power supply in several districts to achieve political and economic goals.
The accused—Joseph Ssemanda, Emmanuel Kato, Yasin Mutyaba, Arafat Kakerewe, Josephat Muhumuza, Yusuf Abdul Razak, Pius Habasa, Pius Kyarisiima, Gerald Ampumuza, Fredrick Otieno, Robert Nirere, Ayub Badda, Yasin Mutebi, John Muyingo, Juma Mutabazi, Ssezario Tumwekwatse, and Deo James Kawalya—appeared in Nakawa Chief Magistrates Court on July 2, 2025. They were charged under Sections 6(1)(b) and 3(n) of the Anti-Terrorism Act, 2002.
Serious Accusations of National Sabotage
Prosecutors allege the group, along with unnamed accomplices, committed acts of power grid terrorism from 2022 to May 2025. The operations took place across the Kampala Metropolitan Area, Luweero, Nakasongola, Mityana, Kiboga, and Mubende. The suspects allegedly disrupted the electricity supply to institutions like Luweero Industries and the Nakasongola Military Hospital.
The court did not allow them to plead since terrorism cases fall under the jurisdiction of the High Court. Grade One Magistrate Andrew Katurubuki adjourned the matter to July 17, 2025, for mention. Prosecutor Martin Odong requested more time, citing ongoing investigations.
Joint Security Crackdown
UEDCL spokesperson Jonan Kiiza explained that the arrests followed a joint security operation. The effort involved the Criminal Investigations Directorate (CID), the Defence Intelligence and Security (DIS), and the UPDF. The operation targeted power thieves and vandals, especially in hotspots like Bombo, Masaka, Mityana, and Mukono.
“These criminal acts paralyzed businesses and disrupted daily life,” Kiiza said.
The Heavy Cost of Vandalism
According to Kiiza, the Electricity (Amendment) Act 2022 sets harsh penalties. Offenders face up to 15 years in jail, fines of UGX 2 billion, or both. He classified these acts as serious economic crimes that threaten public safety.
Power grid terrorism has far-reaching effects. UEDCL and other agencies lose billions annually replacing stolen or destroyed infrastructure. These funds could improve customer services or expand rural power access.
“Instead of investing in expansion and better service, we’re stuck fixing what criminals destroy,” Kiiza said.
Impact on National Life
Power outages triggered by vandalism disrupt more than homes. They interfere with operations in hospitals, schools, and security agencies. The blackouts delay services and increase costs for businesses.
Kiiza warned that tampering with electricity infrastructure poses risks to the public and to the perpetrators. He noted that such acts often lead to deadly accidents or large-scale service disruptions.
“You can’t expect reliable and affordable electricity if people keep damaging the power network,” he said.
Call to the Public
Kiiza urged Ugandans to protect national infrastructure. He reminded communities that electrical installations are public assets. Any attack on them affects every citizen.
“It’s everyone’s duty to watch over these installations,” he said. “Vandalism and power theft hurt livelihoods, drive up tariffs, and slow economic development.”
The suspects now await further court proceedings, which could result in Uganda’s most significant prosecution involving electricity-related terrorism.
Elsewhere, a land dispute involving Uganda Police in Lira City has escalated to court, as detailed here. Meanwhile, human rights lawyer Eron Kiiza is battling delays in obtaining his passport, reported here. Police continue their pursuit of robbery suspects in Kampala, as noted here, and the Attorney General has addressed concerns over MPs holding dual offices here.
