Date: December 26, 2024
The State House Anti-Corruption Unit (SH-ACU), working closely with the Entebbe Police, Uganda Civil Aviation Authority (UCAA) security, and a local community leader, has intercepted a major fraud operation in Entebbe Municipality, seizing USD 2 million in counterfeit currency and arresting three suspects.
The breakthrough follows months of intelligence monitoring. In May 2024 and later in October 2024, SH-ACU received tip-offs regarding a suspicious consignment being held at Entebbe International Airport. Working with partner security agencies, the Unit placed the consignment under surveillance.
On 17th December 2024, the consignment was smuggled out of the airport. Acting swiftly, SH-ACU investigators traced it to a motor vehicle garage in Entebbe.
During a search of the garage earlier today, the joint investigation team uncovered 40 large and medium metallic boxes containing suspected counterfeit US dollars amounting to USD 2 million. To deceive unsuspecting victims, the fraudsters had added soil into the boxes to exaggerate their weight.
In addition to the fake currency, investigators also found several bulky, well-wrapped boxes disguised as goods in transit. Upon inspection, these were discovered to contain worthless items, including empty crates of soda and beer.
So far, three suspects have been arrested, while efforts are underway to apprehend others still at large.
The Head of SH-ACU, Brig Gen Henry Isoke, commended the joint team for the successful operation and reiterated the Unit’s commitment to protecting citizens and investors from fraudulent schemes.
“SH-ACU, in coordination with sister agencies, remains determined to crack down on criminals who target innocent citizens and foreigners through fraudulent and fake transactions,” Brig Gen Isoke emphasized.
The operation demonstrates SH-ACU’s vigilance and resolve in combating organized fraud and financial crimes that undermine public trust and economic security. The Unit continues to encourage the public to report suspicious activities to aid in protecting communities and investors from criminal networks.
