Four Arrested as Police Recover $9 Million in Suspected Counterfeit US Dollars in Lira
LIRA CITY, Uganda — Police in Lira City have arrested four suspects after recovering bundles of United States dollar notes suspected to be counterfeit, with a purported face value of $9 million (approximately Shs33.75 billion), during an intelligence-led operation.
The operation was conducted in Ireda Shamba Cell, Lira City East Division, following intelligence reports that counterfeit currency and related materials were being stored at a residential property belonging to a local businesswoman.
Intelligence-Led Police Operation
According to North Kyoga Regional Police spokesperson Patrick Jimmy Okema, officers from Lira City East Division carried out the search after obtaining a court-authorized search certificate.
“Acting on the information received, a team led by the DPC Lira City East Division proceeded to the scene with a duly issued search certificate and conducted a lawful search of the premises,” Okema said.
During the operation, officers recovered a safe from the residence of a suspect identified only as Sandra.
Police said the suspect informed investigators that the safe had been delivered to her by a housemaid.
Safe Contained Suspected Counterfeit Currency
Investigators later expanded the search and recovered several motor vehicle logbooks along with additional US dollar notes in various denominations.
When officers opened the safe, they reportedly discovered about 100 bundles of suspected counterfeit USD 100 notes, with an estimated face value of $9 million, equivalent to roughly Shs33.75 billion.
The recovered notes have since been secured as exhibits pending forensic examination.
Suspects Linked to Wider Counterfeit Network
Police identified one of the suspects as Siwa Tonny, who is currently detained at Lira City Central Police Station on separate allegations of obtaining money by false pretences.
According to Okema, preliminary investigations indicate that Siwa transported the safe to the residence where it was recovered.
Police further allege that the suspect admitted to participating in similar activities over an extended period and indicated that some of his alleged associates operate in Soroti City.
Investigators are now examining whether the suspects are part of a broader criminal network involved in counterfeit currency operations across the region.
Bank of Uganda to Examine Currency
The suspected counterfeit notes will be submitted to the Bank of Uganda for forensic analysis to determine whether they are genuine or counterfeit.
Police said the results of the examination will form part of the ongoing criminal investigation.
Investigations Continue
Authorities have confirmed that investigations remain ongoing and warned that more arrests could follow as detectives pursue additional suspects believed to be connected to the alleged counterfeit currency syndicate.
Police have urged members of the public to remain vigilant when handling large cash transactions and to report any suspected counterfeit currency to the nearest police station or financial institution.
