Former UPDF Officer Michael Katungi Arrested in Uganda, Faces Extradition to the US Over Alleged Multimillion-Dollar Arms Trafficking Plot Linked to Mexican Cartel

Former Uganda People's Defence Forces (UPDF) officer Michael Katungi Mpeirwe has been arrested in Uganda and is expected to be extradited to the United States over allegations of participating in an international arms trafficking conspiracy linked to one of Mexico's most notorious criminal organizations.

According to security sources, Katungi was arrested on Saturday afternoon before being transferred to the Criminal Investigations Directorate (CID) headquarters in Kibuli, Kampala, where he remained in custody on Sunday as authorities processed his case.

Sources familiar with the matter said the arrest followed a request from the United States, with the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) reportedly seeking his extradition to face charges related to a multimillion-dollar weapons trafficking network.

Investigators claim Katungi is among several individuals suspected of involvement in a conspiracy that allegedly sought to supply military-grade weapons to Mexico's Cartel de Jalisco Nueva Generación (CJNG), a criminal organization that has been linked to drug trafficking, organized crime and violent activities across Latin America.

Authorities believe the alleged network operated across several countries, using international contacts to facilitate the movement of firearms and other military equipment. While investigators have not publicly disclosed the full details of Katungi's alleged role, officials say the case forms part of a wider international investigation targeting suspected arms traffickers.

The arrest has attracted significant attention because of Katungi's background as a former UPDF officer. Security analysts say cases involving former military personnel often draw heightened scrutiny due to their knowledge of weapons systems and military logistics.

Ugandan security agencies have not yet released an official statement detailing the charges or confirming when extradition proceedings will begin. However, legal experts note that any extradition request must follow Uganda's legal procedures and international agreements before a suspect can be transferred to another country for trial.

If extradited, Katungi is expected to appear before a United States court to answer the allegations against him. Like any criminal suspect, he is presumed innocent unless proven guilty in a court of law.

The case is expected to strengthen ongoing cooperation between Ugandan and American law enforcement agencies in combating transnational organized crime, particularly crimes involving the illegal trafficking of weapons.

More information is expected to emerge as investigators in both Uganda and the United States continue with the case and court proceedings begin.