Kampala — Ugandan singer King Saha real name Ssemanda Manisul was arrested on Tuesday evening, August 11, 2026, in a dramatic security operation at his residence in Kyanja that involved armed personnel, gunfire, and multiple injuries.
The raid occurred just hours after the popular Afrobeat and Zouk artiste had been mobilising fans across Kampala for his highly anticipated concert scheduled for Friday, August 14, at Kololo Ceremonial Grounds (also referred to as Kololo Airstrip). Witnesses and videos circulating on social media showed scenes of panic as security operatives, identified by some as members of the Joint Anti-Terrorism Task Force (JATT), cordoned off the area.
According to eyewitness accounts, the operation began around 5:00 pm when operatives arrived in a vehicle commonly known as a “drone.” Members of Saha’s group, known as “Egali,” reportedly resisted and demanded an explanation, leading to a confrontation. Gunshots were fired as operatives sought to disperse the gathering crowd. Reports indicate that at least four people were injured, including two employees of a nearby beauty salon and a boda-boda rider. Some accounts specifically mentioned one person shot in the leg. The injured were rushed for treatment, with later reports a
Videos shared online captured people running for safety amid the sound of gunfire as security personnel took Saha away. He was reportedly transported to Jinja Road Police Station. No official charges or detailed explanation for the arrest were immediately provided by authorities.
Saha was released later that night or early the following day after a brief detention. In a social media post, the singer reassured his supporters: “I’m Out thanks for your prayers.” He later checked on the injured at Mulago Hospital.
The incident has raised questions about the circumstances of the operation, particularly its timing so close to a major public concert. At the time of initial reports, police and other security agencies had not issued a formal statement clarifying the reasons for the raid or confirming the number of casualties.
King Saha has previously faced encounters with security forces, including a 2024 incident at a Kampala venue where his performance was interrupted amid claims of political messaging in his music. Police at the time clarified he was cautioned rather than arrested. The latest events have once again placed the outspoken musician at the centre of public attention in Uganda’s entertainment and political landscape.
As of the latest updates, the status of the Friday concert and any potential legal proceedings remained unclear, with fans and observers closely monitoring developments. Authorities are expected to provide further details on the operation and the condition of those injured.