A viral video showing a man brandishing a panga and threatening patrons inside a Kampala restaurant has ended in arrest, after police confirmed the incident initially feared to be a real attack was actually a poorly executed comedy skit.
The video, which sparked widespread alarm online, was filmed at Chez Boss Mutoto restaurant in Munyonyo and featured a Congolese national, Tokosi Ngoli, along with a local TikToker who staged the scene to generate online engagement.
According to Kampala Metropolitan Police, the so-called performance was never disclosed to customers or staff present at the restaurant, triggering real panic and confusion among onlookers.
“What was intended to be comedy created unnecessary panic,” Kampala Metropolitan Police spokesperson SSP Patrick Onyango said in a statement issued on July 2, 2025. “Carrying a weapon in public, even in the name of entertainment, remains a criminal act.”
Ngoli was arrested and charged with being armed in public. Police confirmed his case file has been forwarded to the State Attorney for further action.
Authorities have since issued a stern warning to content creators, urging them to act responsibly when producing skits in public spaces. Police emphasized that creators must obtain proper consent from bystanders and venue owners to avoid endangering public safety.
“This incident demonstrates how social media content, if irresponsibly produced, can cause real distress,” police warned. “Creators should ensure that their material does not endanger public safety or spread fear.”
The public was also cautioned to verify videos before sharing them, as spreading sensational or misleading footage can contribute to mass panic and misinformation.