A Uganda People’s Defence Forces officer, Major Nicholas Ntakirwa, and two civilians, Mohammed Ali and Trevor Besigye, have been charged before the General Court Martial. The charges are related to allegations of defrauding a foreign investor of USD 2.4 million, approximately Shs13 billion, in a purported gold deal. The State House Anti-Corruption Unit, in collaboration with the Criminal Investigations Directorate and the Office of the Director of Public Prosecutions, conducted a joint operation leading to the arraignment.
According to the prosecution, Ntakirwa, also known as Gen James, presented himself as a representative for the sale and export of 30 kilogrammes of gold to Dubai, United Arab Emirates. The suspects allegedly obtained the money from Gafar Ibrahim Mohammed Elsawi, an investor associated with MAPSCO General Trading LLC. The money was paid on September 22, 2025, at the offices of Duck Hunter Security Company Limited in Muyenga, Makindye Division, Kampala.
Investigators allege that the suspects falsely claimed they were selling and exporting the gold, intending to defraud the investor. The Anti-Corruption Unit further alleges that on September 29, 2025, the suspects obtained an additional USD 120,000, equivalent to more than Shs500 million, from the investor. This was allegedly done under false pretences, with claims that the money would be paid to the Commissioner General of the Uganda Revenue Authority.
The charges include obtaining money by false pretences and scandalous conduct. The latter charge is contrary to the standards of conduct expected of members of the defence forces. The suspects were remanded until November 16, 2026. The case follows a joint investigation by the State House Anti-Corruption Unit, police investigators, and prosecutors.
The Anti-Corruption Unit stated that other suspects connected to the case remain at large. The unit, in collaboration with other agencies, continues to investigate the matter. The UPDF officer and the two civilians are facing serious allegations that have led to their arraignment before the General Court Martial.
The incident highlights the need for vigilance in financial transactions, particularly those involving large sums of money and international dealings. Authorities have urged the public to be cautious of fraudulent schemes and to verify the legitimacy of any business opportunity.
The case has been making headlines, with many awaiting the court's decision on the matter. The General Court Martial will hear the case and determine the culpability of the accused.
Key points
- A UPDF officer and two civilians have been charged over allegedly defrauding a foreign investor of USD 2.4 million in a purported gold deal.
- The suspects were remanded until November 16, 2026, and face charges of obtaining money by false pretences and scandalous conduct.
- The case follows a joint investigation by the State House Anti-Corruption Unit, police investigators, and prosecutors.
