Collaborative Effort Aims to Protect Citizens’ Personal Information and Financial Security

The National Identification and Registration Authority (NIRA) and the Uganda Police Force have joined forces in a concerted effort to apprehend money lenders across the country who have been using citizens’ National Identification Cards (IDs) as collateral or mortgages for loans.

At a press conference held at the police headquarters in Naguru, Osborn Mushabe, a representative from NIRA, emphasized that National IDs should exclusively serve the purpose of identification and verification.

He stated, “We shall collaborate closely with the Uganda Police to conduct thorough investigations and carry out arrests against individuals who continue to engage in the illicit practice of using National IDs as security or collateral for loans.”

Mushabe further encouraged citizens whose National IDs are currently in possession of money lenders to report the matter to the police promptly.

It has been alleged that many money lenders had turned to National IDs as a means of securing quick loans from Ugandans, thereby posing significant risks to individuals and the integrity of the national identification system.

This collaborative effort between NIRA and the Uganda Police aims to safeguard both personal information and financial security. National IDs are a vital tool for the accurate identification of Ugandan citizens and play a pivotal role in various aspects of public administration, from voting to accessing government services.

As the crackdown begins, citizens are urged to be vigilant and report any suspicious activities involving National IDs. NIRA and the Uganda Police emphasize their commitment to upholding the integrity of the national identification system while protecting the rights and security of all citizens.