Security authorities have arrested 16 suspects, including four police officers, in connection with a suspected fake gold fraud scheme involving a Dubai-based businessman who allegedly lost USD 4 million.
The case began in July 2025 when the businessman lodged a complaint claiming that a man identified as Asiimwe Moses and his accomplices, operating under the company name Real Sunnex Ltd, had fraudulently obtained USD 4 million from him through a fake gold transaction.
According to the investigations, the suspects allegedly used the promise of a genuine gold deal to obtain the money from the businessman. Further engagement with the complainant later revealed that the group was allegedly preparing to receive another USD 4 million from the same businessman using similar fraudulent methods.
Acting on the information, joint security teams reportedly planned an operation to stop the suspected fraud. The operation resulted in the arrest of 16 people, including the alleged prime suspect, Asiimwe Moses.
The other suspects arrested are Mibenge Rogers, Kiwanuka Edward, Kajubi Geofrey, Songole Thiery, Ajambo Bright, Mayuku Glody Mata, Nakahosa Soleina, Masaba William, Walusimbi Joseph, Ampurire Anitah, Amani Patrick, Mugoya Christian, Kagarura Dicken, Leta Grace and Mbasa Taboma.
During the operation, security teams recovered several items believed to be connected to the alleged fraud. These included suspected fake gold, documents described as incriminating and eight motor vehicles believed to have been used to facilitate the activities of the suspected syndicate.
The investigation also uncovered the involvement of four police officers who allegedly abandoned their official duties and deployed themselves to guard the suspects at an illegal gold refinery where the fraudulent transactions were reportedly being carried out.
The officers have been identified as Police Constable Kulutu Ayubu, Police Constable Emorut Razak, Police Constable Waiswa Benon and Police Constable Waiswa Siraj.
Authorities said the officers left their respective beats without authorisation and instead offered security to the suspected gold fraud group. Their actions were described as a serious breach of police discipline and professional conduct.
On August 29, 2026, the four officers appeared before the Police Disciplinary Court, where they were tried and convicted over their conduct.
PC Kulutu Ayubu and PC Waiswa Benon were recommended for dismissal from the Uganda Police Force, while PC Waiswa Siraj and PC Emorut Razak were recommended for discharge.
Despite the internal disciplinary action against the officers, the matter does not end there. The four convicted officers, together with the other 12 suspects arrested during the operation, are being processed for criminal trial before the courts of law.
Authorities said the suspects will be taken to court as soon as possible to face the criminal charges arising from the investigation.
Investigations into the wider suspected fraud network are still ongoing. Security agencies are also working to identify any other people who may have been involved in the alleged scheme and to trace and recover the money reportedly obtained from the Dubai businessman.
The authorities have reaffirmed their commitment to fighting misconduct within the police force and ensuring that officers who abuse their positions face appropriate action.
Members of the public have also been urged to remain cautious when dealing in gold and other precious minerals. Authorities advised traders and potential buyers to carry out proper checks and confirm the legitimacy of dealers, companies and gold refineries before committing their money to any transaction.
The case serves as another warning about the risks associated with fraudulent gold deals, particularly transactions involving large amounts of money and unverified dealers.
