UPDF Finally Breaks Silence On Missing Masaka Priest, Reveals What ‘He Did’ Against State!

By Swift Reporter

The Uganda People’s Defence Forces (UPDF) has confirmed that Rev. Fr. Deusdedit Ssekabira of Masaka Diocese is in lawful custody following his arrest by security forces over alleged involvement in violent subversive activities against the state.

In a press statement issued on December 14, 2025, by the Ministry of Defence and Veteran Affairs through the Department of Defence Public Information, the UPDF said the arrest was part of ongoing criminal investigations.

“This is to confirm that Rev. Fr. Deusdedit Ssekabira of Masaka Diocese was recently arrested by the security forces for involvement in violent subversive activities against the state,” the statement reads in part.

According to the UPDF, Rev. Fr. Ssekabira is currently being held in lawful custody to facilitate further investigations into the matter. The military added that upon completion of investigations, he will be produced before courts of law and charged accordingly.

The statement, signed by Col. Chris Magezi, the Acting Director of Defence Public Information, comes amid widespread public concern and speculation following reports that the Catholic priest had gone missing nearly two weeks ago. His disappearance had sparked anxiety among residents of Masaka City and members of the Catholic faithful, with relatives and local leaders demanding clarity on his whereabouts.

Prior to the UPDF clarification, police in Masaka had indicated that they were not involved in the alleged arrest and had not received a formal complaint regarding his disappearance.

The UPDF’s confirmation now places the matter firmly within the ongoing security investigations, with authorities urging the public to remain calm and allow due process to take its course as investigations continue.