Ugandan comedian-turned-pastor Sammy Okanya has reportedly spent several days in detention at Katwe Police Station following allegations that he failed to repay a $10,000 loan obtained from a South Sudanese national.
Okanya, formerly associated with comedy group Da Mighty Family, was reportedly arrested on Sunday at a recording studio in Kasubi, where he had gone to record a song. The circumstances surrounding the alleged loan and the agreement between the two parties remain unclear.
According to reports, Okanya said he borrowed the money to support his religious work, including preaching, organising crusades and travelling outside Uganda for missionary activities.
The funds were also reportedly intended to support research into biblical teachings, which he hoped would strengthen his knowledge of scripture and help him serve congregations in Kayunga District and elsewhere.
However, the precise terms of the alleged loan, including when repayment was due and whether any repayment arrangements had been agreed upon, have not been established in the available reports.
Sama Senyonga, a representative of Okanya’s ministry in Kayunga, confirmed the pastor’s detention while speaking to journalists and appealed for assistance from people who had worked with him during his entertainment career.
“He sent us to call upon all the promoters who had ever held his shows before he became a pastor and all his friends to help him pay this debt. He is in a very bad situation in prison,” Senyonga said.
The appeal reportedly seeks support from former show promoters and friends who knew Okanya before he shifted his focus from comedy to ministry.
Police spokesperson Racheal Kawala, identified in reports as the Kampala Metropolitan Police spokesperson, confirmed Okanya’s arrest. She said he was among several suspects apprehended during police operations targeting alleged criminal activity.
Kawala reportedly added that the screening process for those arrested was still underway, with some suspects expected to be released on police bond as inquiries continued.
It remains unclear whether Okanya has been formally charged in connection with the alleged debt or whether police intend to pursue a criminal case. The available reports do not establish whether the dispute has been assessed as a civil debt matter or involves any separate allegation of criminal conduct.
For now, the case centres on claims that the pastor borrowed $10,000 and failed to repay it, while his ministry representative is appealing for financial assistance.
Further information from police or the parties involved would be needed to clarify the circumstances of the loan and determine what happens next.