Ugandan musician Deus Ndugwa, popularly known as Grenade Official, has been arrested and is currently in detention in Beijing, China.
His arrest took place on Saturday, and the news was confirmed by his social media team in a post that read: “Grenade Arrested in Beijing China Admi +2567528203521.”
According to reports, the former Team No Sleep (TNS) artist had traveled to China for a scheduled performance in Beijing.
However, local authorities reportedly arrested him before or after the event. The reason for his detention remains unclear at this time. Updates will follow as the story develops.
Born on July 14, 1997, in Lyantonde, Uganda, Grenade Official’s early education began at Kitebi Primary School, and he later attended Makindye Secondary School for his Ordinary Level studies.
His entrance into the music industry is a story of persistence and passion. Grenade first sought out music star Jose Chameleone after a dispute over unpaid rabbits, walking from Lyantonde to Kyazanga to confront the artist. Unfortunately, he missed him. Undeterred, he hitched a ride to Kampala on a truck carrying music equipment.
In Kampala, he briefly worked in an equipment shop in Katwe but quickly grew restless and resumed his search for Chameleone. Alongside a friend, he trekked to Seguku in hopes of meeting the artist, but again was unsuccessful. To survive, Grenade took on various odd jobs, including selling scrap.
His first break came when he met a producer named Mavo in Kamwokya, who helped him record his initial tracks under the name Moz Dem. Although this led to a few performance opportunities, a fallout with Mavo forced Grenade back to street life.
His luck began to change when he met singer Coco Finger at 9 Degrees Bar. Coco took him under his wing and later introduced him to fellow musician Big Eye, who offered Grenade accommodation. However, when Big Eye’s associate Don Zella attempted to enroll him back in school, Grenade chose to continue his musical hustle instead.
He later teamed up with Hypeman and began frequenting local bars, which eventually led him to meet Kevin Killer. Through Kevin, Grenade connected with renowned Ugandan artist Pallaso. Their collaboration, including the track Walayi, brought him greater visibility.
His breakthrough came with the release of Nkuloga, a hit that catapulted him into the spotlight and established him as one of Uganda’s most promising musical talents.
As more details surrounding his arrest emerge, fans and the Ugandan music community are anxiously awaiting updates on his status.
