KAMPALA – Ugandan blogger and photographer Andrew Natumanya, popularly known as Tabz or Ninye Tabz, has been released on police bond after several days in detention, according to journalist Canary Mugume, who posted on X on Monday that “Tabz out on Police bond.”
Tabz’s release comes days after opposition figures and online activists raised concerns over his arrest in Kampala. Reports indicate that the blogger, known for his social media commentary and photography work associated with the opposition, was picked up by security operatives in Kamwokya last week under circumstances that initially remained unclear.
The arrest sparked criticism from leaders of the National Unity Platform (NUP), including Secretary General David Lewis Rubongoya, who alleged that Tabz had been taken away by unidentified operatives. At the time, opposition supporters demanded that security agencies disclose his whereabouts and the reasons for his detention.
Prior to his arrest, Tabz had become one of Uganda’s most visible online commentators, attracting a large following on X through political commentary, investigative posts, and coverage of opposition activities. He was also known as a photographer associated with NUP president Robert Kyagulanyi.
As of Monday evening, neither the Uganda Police Force nor other security agencies had publicly provided detailed information regarding the conditions of Tabz’s bond or whether any charges had been preferred against him. The circumstances surrounding his arrest and subsequent release are therefore expected to remain a subject of public and political interest.
Police bond in Uganda allows a suspect to be released from custody while investigations continue and does not amount to an acquittal or termination of investigations.
Tabz’s release is likely to be welcomed by supporters, journalists, and digital activists who had called for his freedom and due process following his detention.
