Brig Gen Felix Busizoori, Commander of the Uganda Peoples’ Defence Forces (UPDF) 4th Infantry Division, has strongly condemned the spread of false rumors on social media regarding the alleged need for 400 human sacrifices before the reopening of Karuma Bridge in Northern Uganda.
He made these remarks during a press conference in Gulu city on November 20 2024 following false rumors spreading on social media of human sacrifices.
“This is 100 percent false,” Brig. Gen. Busizoori stated. He announced that efforts are underway to identify and prosecute those responsible for disseminating such misinformation.
“We are committed to holding accountable those spreading harmful propaganda,” he affirmed.
He further added that these unfounded rumors have instilled fear among various community members, including schoolchildren, farmers, business owners, and travelers.
Brig Gen Busizoori suggested that the disinformation campaign was intended to undermine the government ahead of upcoming political campaigns.
“The goal is to create fear and portray the government as unpopular,” he explained. “This misinformation is detrimental, as it discourages people from engaging in their daily activities,” Brig Gen Busizori said.
Senior Superintendent of Police (SSP) Samuel Asiimwe, the Regional Police Commander, echoed these concerns and urged smartphone users to be vigilant.
“We face challenges from individuals misusing smartphones for malicious purposes,” SSP Asiimwe said.
He also clarified that claims of rampant violence are unfounded, stating that aside from a single murder case in Amuru District, there have been no incidents of head-cutting.
“If there were an interest in such actions, heads would have been taken,” he remarked.
He noted that the rumors, exacerbated by social media users sharing unrelated graphic images from West Africa, have caused unnecessary panic in the region.
Security forces reassured the public that they were managing the situation and urged calm as investigations continue.
