SH-ACU led operation sees six Gold Scammers Arrested, Remanded in Entebbe

ENTEBE. In a major breakthrough for the fight against illegal dealing in minerals, six suspects, some Entebe Airport staff have been arrested and charged for a gold scam at Entebbe International Airport. The suspects were apprehended following a directive from the President of Uganda, who instructed the Anti-Graft Unit (SHACU) to investigate the matter.

The operation, which took place on 30th September 2024, involved a collaborative effort between SHACU, the Criminal Investigation Directorate (CID), and the Office of the Director of Public Prosecutions (ODPP). The team targeted individuals involved in the illegal trade of minerals, particularly gold, at the airport.

Among the arrested suspects are prominent figures such as Kananura Daniel, a businessman, Mpomba Richard and Muhwezi Benon, both clearing agents at Entebbe International Airport, Nkahirwa Pascal, a clearing agent in Kampala, Mujuzi John Keneddy, a cleaner at the airport, and Bekalaze Ismail, another clearing agent at the airport.

Authorities discovered the suspects in possession of 11 plastic boxes containing 300 metal bars that they claimed to be gold. However, a forensic analysis conducted by minerals experts from the Directorate of Geological Survey and Mines revealed that the items were not gold, but other minerals disguised as the precious metal.

The suspects have been charged at the Entebbe Chief Magistrate’s Court with multiple offenses, including dealing in minerals without a license, mingling minerals with intent to defraud, and smuggling minerals. They are currently remanded until the 25th of October 2024.

This successful operation serves as a significant blow to those attempting to deceive unsuspecting individuals, especially investors and businessmen, through fraudulent mineral dealings. The swift actions taken by SH-ACU and other agencies demonstrate a commitment to upholding the rule of law and combating illicit activities in the country.