Ugandan authorities seize counterfeit currency
The State House Anti-Corruption Unit (SHACU), in collaboration with other security agencies, intercepted a staggering $2 million in counterfeit cash concealed in metallic boxes. The Fake Cash Seized in Entebbe video surfaced on social media yesterday on the 28th of December 2024. The dramatic bust unfolded in Entebbe on Friday, culminating in the arrest of three suspects linked to this elaborate scheme.
Fake Cash Seized in Entebbe | How it began
The investigation began in May when SHACU received a tip-off about a suspicious consignment being held at Entebbe International Airport. Acting on this intelligence, the unit closely monitored the situation for seven months.
Last Tuesday, the consignment was reportedly smuggled out of the airport, triggering SHACU’s intensified efforts. The team traced the suspect items to a motor vehicle garage in Entebbe.
The Discovery of Fake Cash Seized in Entebbe
On Friday, during a search of the garage, SHACU and other security personnel uncovered 40 metallic boxes containing what appeared to be counterfeit U.S. dollars amounting to $2 million (approximately UGX 7.3 billion). To mislead potential victims, the fraudsters had added soil to the boxes to increase their weight and create an illusion of authenticity.
The operation was spearheaded by SHACU chief Brig. Gen. Henry Isoke and involved key players, including Entebbe Police, the Uganda Civil Aviation Authority (UCAA), and local council leaders.
More Than Fake Cash
In addition to the counterfeit money, the investigative team also recovered several bulky boxes deceptively packaged to look like goods in transit. Upon inspection, the boxes contained discarded items such as empty soda and beer crates.
Brig. Gen. Isoke reaffirmed SHACU’s commitment to combating such criminal activities, saying, “We are determined, in coordination with other sister agencies, to crack down on criminals who target innocent citizens and foreigners to extort colossal sums of money through fraudulent and fake transactions.”
Previous Incidents of Fake Cash Seized in Entebbe
This is not the first time SHACU has exposed illegal activities linked to Entebbe International Airport. In October, the unit arrested five airport staff members for allegedly engaging in fraudulent mineral dealings. The suspects, including four clearing agents and a cleaner, were charged with dealing in minerals without a license, mingling minerals with intent to defraud, and smuggling minerals. This goes to show you how many times there has been Fake Cash Seized in Entebbe.
Ongoing Investigations
The latest operation highlights the challenges posed by criminal syndicates exploiting vulnerabilities within Uganda’s systems. While three suspects are in custody, SHACU has confirmed that other culprits involved in this counterfeit cash scheme are being pursued.
This crackdown underscores the unit’s unwavering commitment to safeguarding both citizens and foreigners from fraudulent schemes, reinforcing the importance of vigilance and cooperation among law enforcement agencies.
