Police in Nambale Sub-County in Busia County have launched a manhunt for a Ugandan herbalist accused of conning over 10 residents out of more than KSh1.7 million in less than three weeks, before allegedly threatening to harm them with a “magic snake” if they reported him.
The suspect, believed to be from Mbale in eastern Uganda, is said to have been arrested earlier but was released on police cash bail of KSh15,000. Police resumed the manhunt after several victims reported the fraud at various police stations, demanding his immediate re-arrest.
The suspect, identified as Kiisa Hakim, is alleged to have been masquerading as Dr. Paul Okello, a well-known herbalist from Kaliwa village. He reportedly conned residents through social media, using photos and videos of Dr. Okello, who is currently the MCA for Amukura Central in Teso South Constituency.
“It is shocking to learn that that Ugandan went on my youTube account where he extracted my photos and previous videos I posted those days I used to deliver my magical herbalists and formed his account to con people. Let everyone who fell a victim to him come forward for justice,” said Dr. Paul Okello Odhiambo, the MCA Amukura Central.
Before vying for the Amukura Central MCA seat, Okello was known for his alleged magical powers of dealing with thieves popularly referred to as ‘Mula Nyasi’, the name he still uses even on political forum.
Written by Seth Ngero
