Ugandan opposition leader Bobi Wine has said he was “grabbed” by “goons” and put under house arrest on his return from South Africa.

The singer-turned-politician is the strongest challenger to President Yoweri Museveni, who has held office for almost 40 years.

The 41-year-old has been arrested numerous times and has faced several charges, including treason.

Police denied arresting Bobi Wine, saying he was merely “escorted” home.

“Disregard rumours of his arrest by propagandists,” the police said in a statement.

Bobi Wine, a former pop star whose real name is Robert Kyagulanyi, made a failed bid for the presidency in 2021 in a tense election against President Museveni, 79.

The election campaign was marked by a crackdown on the opposition and at least 54 people were killed during anti-government demonstrations.