A man accused of orchestrating a multi-million shilling gold export scam has been remanded by the Makindye Magistrate’s Court as investigations into the case continue.
Ssentumbwe James faces several criminal charges, including obtaining money by false pretence involving USD 150,000 (about Shs551 million), conspiracy to defraud, forgery, and carrying out mineral refining and trading without a valid licence.
Prosecution alleges that in January 2026, Ssentumbwe, together with an accomplice identified as Kibuye Adams Yawe, deceived a Malaysian businessman, Kon Kin Kheong, into sending the money under the pretext of facilitating the export of 50 kilograms of gold to Dubai.
However, investigators say the promised gold transaction was fraudulent.
The court was also informed that Kibuye allegedly used a forged State House identification card, which portrayed him as a political mobiliser, to convince the victim that the transaction was legitimate.
Authorities believe the suspected fraud ring may involve more individuals. Investigators have since turned their attention to persons associated with Hey Transporters and Logistics, based in Lweza–Lubowa, Wakiso District, where an unlicensed gold processing facility is suspected to have been operating.
Prosecutors told the court that efforts to arrest Kibuye and other suspected accomplices are ongoing.
The court ordered that Ssentumbwe remain on remand until March 6, 2026, when the matter will return for mention as investigations continue.
