Uganda Arrests Seven in $70,000 Fake Gold Scam Targeting Nigerian Businessman
Ugandan authorities have detained seven suspects over a $70,000 gold scam that defrauded a Nigerian businessman in a cross-border con.
The State House Anti-Corruption Unit (SH-ACU), in collaboration with the Criminal Investigations Directorate (CID), said the group tricked businessman Mark Gbillah into believing they could supply seven kilograms of gold through two firms, Legacy Refinery Limited and Emerod Agency Limited. Investigations later revealed neither company possessed any gold.
The suspects, Paluku Kisasi, Safari Akonkwa, Isaac Mpende, Abdul Madjid Kahirima, Mabwongo Prince, Kajjubi Tevin Kyome, and Tibasiima Barbra (alias Katushabe Sharon), allegedly posed as dealers, clearing agents, corporate representatives, and secretarial staff to execute the elaborate ruse.
SH-ACU senior officer Bamwiine Muhorozi said the arrest came after Gbillah swiftly reported the fraud.
“We set up a controlled meeting with the suspects, leading to their capture before they could extort more funds,” he said.
A raid on their rented premises in Muyenga, Kampala, uncovered 150 kilograms of counterfeit gold bars and imitation nuggets, allegedly used to deceive multiple victims.
Calling the operation significant, Bamwiine urged investors to verify all transactions before committing funds.
“Check with relevant authorities and report suspicious activities to protect yourself from fraud,” he warned.
The suspects are expected to face formal charges in court in the coming days.
