A major investigation into the alleged theft of Shs53 billion from the Bank of Uganda (BoU) has led to searches at the homes of several senior Ministry of Finance officials. The operation, led by the Criminal Investigations Directorate (CID) and the Directorate of Forensics, took place on February 5, 2025.
Among those targeted was Mr. Lawrence Semakula, the accountant general, along with eight other officials who had been detained a day earlier, on February 4, to provide statements regarding the case.
The police operation began around 10:30 am, when family members arrived at Kira Division Police Station. The first search was conducted at Mr. Semakula’s home in Bukoto around 1:30 pm, followed by a search at the home of IT specialist Mr. Mark Kasiiku in Muyenga.
The detained officials include:
– Ms. Jennifer Muhuruzi – Acting Director of Treasury Services
– Mr. Mubarak Nansaba – Commissioner of Treasury Services
– Ms. Judith Ashaba – Accountant
– Ms. Deborah Dorothy Kusiima – Senior Accountant
– Mr. Tonny Yawe – Senior IT Officer
– Mr. Paul Lumala – Systems IT Officer
– Ms. Bephar Nayebare – Department of Management Information Systems
After their homes were searched, the officials were taken to Kira Division and Nateete police stations for further questioning.
Police spokesperson Kituuma Rusoke confirmed the operation, stating, “Nine individuals are in custody as part of the investigation into the missing funds.”
The case began in November after the Monitor newspaper reported on the missing funds. President Museveni then ordered a joint investigation by the CID, Defence Intelligence and Security (DIS), and the Auditor General’s office.
The investigation uncovered that money meant for international financial institutions was redirected. For example, over $6 million (Shs22.3 billion) meant for the World Bank was sent to a private company in Tokyo, and $8.6 million (Shs31.2 billion) intended for the African Development Bank went to a private account in London.
What are your thoughts on this matter? Please feel free to share your opinions in the comment box.