Two Ugandan men have been arrested by the Police Mineral Protection Department (PMPU) in connection with a fraudulent gold transaction that cost a Turkish businessman $150,000. The case, registered under PMPU CRB: 070/2025, was reported on August 1, 2025, at the PMPU offices in Naguru by the victim, Mr. Ozel Mustafa, a 50-year-old Turkish national.
According to police reports, Mr. Mustafa was lured into a fake business deal involving the sale of 10 kilograms of gold. The suspects—identified as Kasibante Farouk Yaawe and Ali Kalisa—allegedly convinced him to hand over $150,000. After receiving the money, the suspects vanished, leaving the victim with no gold and no means of further contact.
Realizing he had been conned, Mr. Mustafa promptly reported the matter to authorities. PMPU swiftly launched an investigation and successfully arrested the two suspects. Key exhibits recovered during the operation include two motor vehicles—a white Subaru Impreza (registration number UA 977AD) and a black Subaru Impreza (registration number UBQ 450T). Police also seized three mobile phones: an iPhone 16 Pro Max, an iPhone 13 Pro Max, and a Samsung smartphone, along with a passport in the name of Kasibante Farouk (No. A00106478).
The case file was forwarded to the Resident State Attorney (RSA), who reviewed and approved the charges. On August 8, 2025, the suspects appeared in court, where they were formally charged and subsequently remanded to Kigo Prison.
Police say investigations are still ongoing as more suspects linked to the criminal network remain at large. Authorities have issued a warning to the public, particularly foreign nationals, urging them to be cautious when approached with gold deals and to report any suspicious activity to law enforcement immediately.
This case underscores how fraudsters continue to exploit unsuspecting investors using sophisticated and deceptive schemes. The Police Mineral Protection Department has reaffirmed its commitment to cracking down on such crimes and ensuring all culprits are brought to justice.
