By In a dramatic twist shaking Uganda’s security circles, former Chief of Military Intelligence Maj Gen James Birungi has been arrested and thrown into Makindye Military Police Prison over grave charges — treason, corruption, and other serious offences.
Defence officials confirmed on Friday that Birungi will soon face the General Court Martial, following explosive findings from a high-level Board of Inquiry chaired by Deputy Chief of Defence Forces Lt Gen Sam Okiding.
The Probe That Shook the UPDF
According to insiders, the inquiry uncovered compromised intelligence operations, abuse of resources, and manipulation of operations at the heart of the UPDF.
“This is not just about one man — it exposes deeper structural rot,” a senior defence source revealed.
How It All Unraveled
Tensions mounted earlier this year when Maj Gen Richard Otto took over as Chief of Defence Intelligence. His immediate move? A series of internal audits and reviews — which allegedly uncovered massive irregularities tied to Birungi and some top brass.
Who Else Is in Custody?
Birungi isn’t alone. Also cooling their heels in detention are:
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Col Peter Ahimbisibwe, former Director of Counter-Terrorism
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Lt Col Ephraim Byaruhanga, former Director of Special Operations
Why This Matters
This is being described as one of the biggest intelligence shake-ups in recent UPDF history. The arrests have sent shockwaves across military and political corridors, with the court martial expected to reveal seismic details of betrayal, power struggles, and corruption.
All eyes are now on Makindye Military Police Prison, as Uganda braces for a trial that could reshape the future of its intelligence community.
