CID Director AIGP Magambo Speaks Out on Property Dispute Between Prof. Kateregga, Wife

The Director of Criminal Investigations in the Uganda Police Force (UPF), Assistant Inspector General of Police (AIGP) Tom Magambo, has publicly distanced himself from an ongoing property dispute involving educationist Prof. Badru Kateregga and his wife, Mrs. Jolly Shubaiha Kateregga.

For weeks, AIGP Magambo’s name has been mentioned in connection with the highly publicised family dispute, prompting the Uganda Police Force to issue an official clarification dismissing claims of police interference or influence in the matter.

Police Clarification

In a statement issued by the Uganda Police Force, authorities clarified that the dispute was first reported to police on November 7, 2024, and was duly investigated under file reference CID HQRS/GEF 306/204.

According to the statement, the case file was submitted to the Office of the Director of Public Prosecutions (ODPP) for legal guidance. On February 18, 2025, the ODPP advised that the dispute was fundamentally a civil matter centred on property ownership and management—issues beyond the mandate of the police and best resolved through civil courts.

Police further emphasized that:

Any alteration of possession of disputed property can only be effected through a valid court order.

The police have no authority to remove either party from the property without such an order.

Claims suggesting that the police can override ODPP guidance or act outside established legal procedures are unfounded.

The Force reiterated its commitment to impartial enforcement of the law and urged the parties to pursue lawful civil remedies.

Magambo Responds to Allegations

In a separate personal response yesterday, AIGP Magambo categorically denied any personal involvement or acquaintance with either Prof. Kateregga or Mrs. Jolly Kateregga.

“My team has brought to my attention a WhatsApp message circulating on some groups dragging my name into the family wrangles of Professor Kateregga and his wife,” Magambo said.

He referenced the earlier public briefing by the Police spokesperson, which advised that the matter be handled as a civil dispute, stressing that the Criminal Investigations Directorate has no powers to intervene.

“For the record, I have never in my life met Prof. Kateregga or his wife personally. The insinuation by diversionary forces that we are known to each other should be rejected with the contempt it deserves,” Magambo stated.

He concluded by urging the public to focus on national development rather than misinformation.

“Let us focus on building our motherland Uganda,” he said.