Mbarara Man Arrested for Posing as a Woman, Duping Men for Years

Mbarara, Uganda – In a shocking turn of events, Police in Mbarara have arrested Justus Ainembabazi, a man who spent years posing as a woman, duping unsuspecting men and engaging in a web of deception across multiple districts. Ainembabazi, who went by the name “Keitesi,” had reportedly built a false identity that left the local community stunned.

The revelation came to light on Monday after Ainembabazi was tracked down in Mwizi, Rwampara District. According to Francis Mwemere, the LCII chairman of Kibingo Parish in Kashari, Ainembabazi initially arrived in the village disguised as a pastor and later took on roles as a bar hostess. For two years, residents believed Ainembabazi was a woman, a perception shattered in the third year when his true identity was uncovered.

“I’ve never seen anything like this before—someone living as a woman for two years and then suddenly being found to be a man,” Mwemere remarked.

Arrest Triggered by Theft Allegations

The arrest stemmed from allegations of phone theft in Ibanda District. Village defense chief Philip Byamukama explained that Police had been tracking Ainembabazi under the assumption he was a woman. However, local residents in Mwizi identified him as male.

“A complaint was filed regarding a stolen phone,” Byamukama said. “The complainant had assisted Keitesi in obtaining a SIM card. After stealing the phone, Keitesi fled, but the tracker led us to him. I coordinated with Police by pretending to be another man wanting to meet him. When we finally apprehended him, it was revealed he was a man.”

Upon arrest, Ainembabazi confessed to adopting a female persona to deceive others. Further investigations revealed that he had been presenting himself as a woman in Buhweju and Mbarara districts for years, wearing women’s clothing and engaging in fraudulent activities.

Community Shock and Betrayal

Residents expressed disbelief upon learning the truth. Sylvia Komujuni, a former acquaintance, shared her shock: “I’ve known him as a woman for two years. We’ve even shared clothes, underwear, and dresses. It’s hard to process this betrayal.”

Komujuni added that Ainembabazi once duped 10 men in a bar, who later forced him to remove his clothes, revealing his true identity. “They even cut off his hair. It was unbelievable,” she said.

Ainembabazi’s deception extended beyond social interactions. He was reportedly hired to perform tasks at events, including cutting cakes and attending parties in his feminine guise. “I would arrive at parties, find clothes waiting for me, get my makeup done at salons, and then perform tasks as Keitesi,” he admitted during questioning.

Legal Action and Investigation

Authorities have charged Ainembabazi with theft and impersonation. The investigation continues as Police seek to uncover the full extent of his activities. The case has sparked widespread discussion on identity, trust, and deception in local communities.

CityNews will provide updates as this story develops.