Top Story: 7 Arrested in Kampala for Defrauding Nigerian Tycoon in Fake Gold Scam
Kampala, Uganda – August 12, 2025:
The State House Anti-Corruption Unit has arrested seven individuals involved in a high-profile gold scam that defrauded a Nigerian businessman of USD 70,000.
Speaking at a press briefing held at the Unit’s offices in the Parliamentary Building, Mr. Bamwiine Muhorozi, a senior officer with the Unit, revealed that the suspects tricked Mr. Mark Gbillah, a Nigerian investor, into a fake deal involving the sale of seven kilograms of non-existent gold.
The suspects — a mix of Congolese and Ugandan nationals — posed as gold dealers, agents, and representatives of two fictitious companies: Legacy Refinery Limited and Emerod Agency Limited.
Those arrested include:
- Paluku Kisasi – Congolese, alleged gold seller
- Safari Akonkwa – Congolese, alleged clearing agent for Legacy Refinery
- Isaac Mpende – Congolese, alleged agent for Legacy Refinery
- Abdul Madjid Kahirima – Ugandan, alleged gold smelter
- Mabwongo Prince – Congolese, alleged gold seller from DRC
- Kajjubi Tevin Kyome – Ugandan, representative of Emerod Co. Ltd
- Tibasiima Barbra alias Katushabe Sharon – Ugandan, secretary of Emerod Co. Ltd
According to Mr. Bamwiine, the arrests were made following swift cooperation from the victim, who reported the scam early. A controlled operation was set up by the Unit, leading to the suspects being caught red-handed before they could extort further funds.
A search at their rented premises in Muyenga uncovered around 150 kilograms of fake gold bars and imitation nuggets, believed to have been used in the fraudulent operation.
Mr. Bamwiine noted that while gold scams are not new, this case stood out due to the suspects being apprehended in the act, potentially preventing losses to other unsuspecting investors.
He urged the public, especially foreign investors, to verify business dealings through proper government channels and to report any suspicious activity to authorities.
The suspects are currently in custody and are expected to face charges in court.
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