Ugandan singer Alien Skin (real name Patrick Mulwana), a figure long associated with controversy both on and off the stage, is once again at the centre of a criminal investigation — this time over murder allegations tied to the death of his own group member.
The Death of Wilfred Namuwaya
According to police, on September 20, 2025, Wilfred Namuwaya — a member of Alien Skin’s Fangone Forest music group — was abducted from his home in Ndeeba by a known associate, Musomali, allegedly acting on the singer’s orders. Investigators say the motive was punishment for Namuwaya’s decision to leave the group without permission.
Namuwaya was later found abandoned in Mpomba Zone. He was rushed to Mulago Hospital by a Good Samaritan but succumbed to his injuries on September 22.
“This was a violent and coordinated attack. The suspects, including Alien Skin, must be held accountable,” said SSP Patrick Onyango, police spokesperson, adding that the hunt is on for the singer and his associates — Commander Mdogo, Ibra Kabadiya, and Mijagulo.
A History of Violence and Controversy
This is not Alien Skin’s first brush with the law. In December 2024, he was remanded to Luzira Prison after a video emerged showing his gang assaulting hospital staff and security guards at Nsambya Hospital. While he was initially accused of endorsing the attack, formal charges included the theft of an iPhone 15 Pro, Shs480,000, and a wallet containing a national ID. He denied all charges.
Despite public outcry, some voices, such as fellow musician Pallaso, initially defended him, arguing that Alien Skin’s troubles reflected deeper issues facing ghetto youth. However, their relationship soon turned violent. In January 2025, Pallaso allegedly led a mob attack on Alien Skin’s Makindye home following an earlier confrontation in Buloba, Wakiso District. Witnesses reported the singer hiding in his ceiling to escape the assault.
Alien Skin’s notoriety has also spilled into political confrontations. He has been accused of mobilizing gangs to disrupt opposition supporters, notably at the NUP headquarters in Makerere Kavule, further blurring the line between music feuds and political clashes.
A Dangerous Escalation
While Alien Skin has often thrived on controversy to fuel his popularity, police say the death of Namuwaya marks a dangerous escalation. The case has prompted widespread calls for accountability within Uganda’s entertainment industry, where violent rivalries have increasingly spilled from the stage into real-life conflict.
Police have appealed to the public to provide information on Alien Skin’s whereabouts, stressing that investigations are ongoing.
“This is no longer just about music or public fights,” Onyango said. “It is about life and death. We need cooperation to bring the perpetrators to justice.”
