In a significant breakthrough, Uganda’s State House Investors Protection Unit (SH-IPU) and the Anti-Corruption Unit (ACU) have successfully blocked a scam that nearly defrauded a Turkish investor of $4.95 million.
The fraud scheme falsely claimed to be linked to the Ministry of Energy and Mineral Development, offering a forged government contract for the supply of Ad Blue, a chemical used to reduce vehicle emissions.
The victim, Mr. Furkan Gumran, a businessman and owner of Sirus Blue Chemical Manufacturing Co. Ltd., was the target of the elaborate scheme.
According to Israel Ochwo, Deputy Head of the ACU, the plot was thwarted through a coordinated operation between the SH-IPU and the ACU.
Had the scam succeeded, it would have not only caused a major financial loss to the investor but also severely damaged Uganda’s standing as a reliable and trustworthy investment destination, Ochwo said.
Authorities arrested four individuals in connection with the fraud, including, Dr. Mulyansaka Charles, who falsely claimed to be the Chairperson of a Special Contracts Committee, Mwesigye Moses, who impersonated a Director of Procurement, Seruma Moses, who posed as a Communications and IT Specialist and Watum Peter, who claimed to be a secretary in the committee.
The suspects went to great lengths to create convincing fake documents, including forged signatures and government stamps, to make the contract appear legitimate.
The mastermind behind the operation, Ssekidde Lubowa Godfrey, remains on the run.
Authorities are urging the public to provide any information that could lead to his arrest. Efforts to dismantle similar fraud networks both within Uganda and internationally are currently underway.
Ochwo emphasized Uganda’s commitment to maintaining a transparent and secure environment for investors.
“Uganda welcomes investors and remains dedicated to ensuring a safe and reliable investment climate,” he said.
Both the SH-IPU and ACU have reassured the public that they will remain vigilant and continue working to bring the remaining suspects to justice.
Public cooperation remains crucial in fighting such fraudulent activities and ensuring the country’s reputation as a trusted business hub.
