Journalist and social media commentator Andrew Natumanya, popularly known as Ninye Tabz, has been released on police bond after spending several days in custody over allegations relating to the alleged unauthorized disclosure of official information and unlawful sharing of personal data.His release comes amid heightened public attention surrounding his detention, which had sparked concern among supporters, activists, and media practitioners who questioned the circumstances under which he was held.
According to police bond documentation, Natumanya is being investigated for allegedly leaking restricted government-related information and improperly exposing private personal data, accusations that remain under active inquiry by investigators.Under the conditions of his release, he has been directed to report to the CID Commander at Kampala Metropolitan Police Headquarters as well as Kampala Central Police Station (CPS) on Monday, June 29, 2026, at 10:00 a.m. for continued questioning.
Reports indicate that before being brought to CPS Kampala, Natumanya had allegedly been held for several days in an undisclosed location, a detail that has intensified scrutiny over the handling of his case.The matter has also drawn political attention after State Minister for Local Government Justine Kasule Lumumba Nameere reportedly filed a formal complaint following a public confrontation with Natumanya on the social media platform X, which is believed to have triggered aspects of the investigation.
The opposition National Unity Platform National Unity Platform has previously claimed that Natumanya was abducted by unidentified security operatives, with party spokesperson David Lewis Rubongoya alleging he was taken from Kamwokya in a “drone,” claims that fueled widespread public debate.Authorities have not yet provided a detailed explanation of where Natumanya was held prior to his transfer to CPS Kampala, nor have they confirmed whether his detention is directly connected to the complaint lodged by Minister Nameere.As investigations continue, Natumanya’s case remains under close public watch, with his compliance to bond conditions expected to determine the next steps in a matter that has already ignited discussions on digital speech, privacy rights, and security procedures.
