Mike Mutyaba, who previously served as assistant coach at Express FC, is among five individuals provisionally barred from football activities following allegations of match manipulation in the Uganda Premier League.
The decision was taken by the Investigatory Chamber of the Federation of Uganda Football Associations Ethics and Disciplinary Committee after suspicions emerged regarding the league encounter between Kitara FC and Express played on December 21, 2024.
FUFA revealed that the probe was triggered by an integrity alert submitted by FIFA, which detected irregular betting patterns connected to the fixture. According to the report, betting activity suggested prior knowledge that Express would suffer a heavy defeat, with wagers indicating the team was expected to concede at least five goals.
The match eventually ended in a 7-0 victory for Kitara. George Ssenkaaba scored a hat-trick, while Jude Ssemugabi grabbed a brace. Fred Amaku and David Ndihabwe also got on the scoresheet.
Preliminary findings allege that Mutyaba worked alongside Ivan Katende, a figure previously associated with match-fixing investigations.
The duo is also suspected to have collaborated with former Express chief executive Ashraf Miiro in organizing the alleged scheme.
Investigators further claim that betting accounts believed to be linked to Katende placed several wagers through a betting company based in Tanzania.
The accounts reportedly generated significant winnings before the betting operator halted the payouts after detecting suspicious activity.
The inquiry has also identified two Express players, Emmanuel Kalyowa and Ashraf Mbazira who are alleged to have influenced events during the match.
Authorities believe Mutyaba oversaw tactical decisions on match day, reportedly taking advantage of the absence of Express head coach Badru Kaddu.
FUFA confirmed that the investigation is being conducted with support from the Criminal Investigations Directorate as authorities attempt to establish the full extent of the alleged manipulation.
As a precautionary measure, Mutyaba, Miiro, Kalyowa, Mbazira and Katende have been suspended from all football-related activities until the disciplinary process is concluded.
FUFA has also cautioned clubs, players and other stakeholders against engaging with the individuals during the ongoing investigation, emphasizing the importance of safeguarding the credibility and integrity of the sport.
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