By Jako David Waluluka
The arrest of local singer Jingo Shafiq, aka Fik Gaza of Gaza Empire and ‘Banana’ song fame, last week and subsequent arraignment at Makindye Chief Magistrates Court over charges of aggravated robbery serves as a warning to thuggish entertainment players.
Fik Gaza, who was apprehended last week along with Najib Magoola, David Mutuba (aka Man Gazza), Charles (aka Muzungu), and three members of his ‘gaali’ entourage, faces a lengthy legal battle that will likely impact his career and finances.
The singer, who for some time has been linked to various violent altercations that attracted mild security intervention, has now sparked a deeper investigation into his outlaw lifestyle.
Fik Gaza’s recent arrest follows a similar incident involving his former associate, Patrick Mulwana, aka Alien Skin. Alien Skin was arrested last year for allegedly assaulting medical staff at St. Francis Hospital in Nsambya, where a fan had died, and later faced charges of robbery and causing grievous bodily harm.
Here’s a breakdown of the events:
Alien Skin’s Arrest: He was taken into custody for allegedly assaulting staff at Nsambya Hospital and robbing someone of an iPhone 15 Pro and cash.
Charges and Court Appearance: Alien Skin pleaded not guilty to all charges, but was denied bail and remanded to Luzira Prison until November 28, 2024.
Fik Gaza’s Arrest: Following Alien Skin’s incident, Fik Gaza was arrested on April 3, 2025, alongside three others, on accusations of robbery. The police operation at his residence recovered exhibits, including pangas, military attire, and suspected narcotics.
Both incidents highlight concerns about violence and crime within the entertainment industry. Fellow artist Pallaso has expressed sympathy for Alien Skin, suggesting that prison sentences may not be the most effective solution, especially considering Alien Skin’s influence on young people in the community.
Alien Skin later faced charges of robbery, including stealing an iPhone 15 Pro Max, UGX 480,000, and a wallet with a national ID. The singer spent a couple of weeks on remand at Luzira Prison until he secured bail, as mediation between the aggrieved parties took precedence.
Crackdown on ‘Gaali’ Formations
Bringing Fik Gaza and Alien Skin to book serves as a warning from the combined security teams that the days of artists commanding thuggish outfits, known as ‘gaali’, are coming to an end.
These formations, previously associated with now-incarcerated socialite Charles Olimi (aka Sipapa), have a history of gadget theft and pickpocketing at live events and concerts, affecting the appearance of revelers.
Police Response
Despite Alien Skin’s accusations of police witch-hunting artists on social media, evidence recovered during separate raids on their residences, including banned security items, drugs, suspected stolen phones, and sharp objects, suggests otherwise. Unless artists stop engaging in or facilitating crime, law enforcement agencies will continue to take action.
