KAMPALA, Uganda — One of Uganda’s most controversial property battles has taken another dramatic turn after city businessman and politician Mukesh Shukla, popularly known as Shumuk, was reportedly arrested by security operatives over allegations linked to forgery, criminal trespass, and disputed property ownership.
The reports, which sparked widespread discussion after a video circulated on social media on Wednesday morning, are believed to be connected to the long-running legal dispute between Shumuk and the family of the late businessman Bonny Katatumba.
Shumuk, the proprietor of the Shumuk Group of Companies, has for years been involved in a protracted legal battle over several prime Kampala properties, including the disputed Shumuk House and Hotel Diplomaté.
According to information available, security operatives allegedly picked up the businessman from premises linked to his business operations as investigations into the multi-billion-shilling property dispute continue. Sources indicate that the latest developments may be related to the enforcement of court orders arising from the long-running Katatumba-Shumuk property saga.
Over the years, Shumuk has faced a number of legal challenges, including allegations of forgery, criminal trespass, uttering false documents, obtaining money by false pretence, and conspiracy to defraud. He has consistently denied any wrongdoing, maintaining that the accusations are part of a campaign intended to damage his reputation and business interests.
The reported arrest comes months after a High Court ruling that reportedly ordered Shumuk and companies associated with him to pay more than UGX 14 billion in mesne profits for the unlawful occupation of portions of Shumuk House. The court also directed several companies linked to the businessman, including Shumuk Springs Development Limited, to vacate a number of condominium units by March 2026.
Court records indicate that the dispute between the Katatumba family and Shumuk has stretched for more than 16 years, resulting in multiple lawsuits, appeals, criminal complaints, and enforcement proceedings, making it one of Uganda’s most closely watched commercial property disputes.
Despite the legal challenges, Shumuk remains a prominent figure in Uganda’s business community, with investments spanning manufacturing, real estate, hospitality, and other sectors. His involvement in politics and public affairs has earned him both strong supporters and vocal critics.
While supporters argue that the cases stem from complex commercial disputes and intense business rivalries, critics point to a series of adverse court rulings as evidence of broader legal and ethical concerns surrounding his business dealings.
However, sources close to Shumuk’s legal team have disputed reports of his arrest, claiming that the viral video circulating on social media depicts previous events and does not relate to any recent arrest. By press time, authorities had not issued an official statement confirming the reports or detailing any charges that may have been preferred against him.
The matter remains developing, and the circumstances surrounding the alleged arrest could not be independently verified at the time of publication.
The saga continues to unfold as investigators pursue fresh leads in a property dispute that has gripped Uganda’s legal and business circles for nearly two decades.
