Police has arrested 16 suspects in connection with an alleged fake gold scam in which a businessman from Dubai reportedly lost USD 4 million.
According to police, the businessman lodged a complaint in July 2025 alleging that Asiimwe Moses and his accomplices, operating under Real Sunnex Ltd, fraudulently obtained the money from him through a fake gold transaction.
Police said further investigations established that the suspects were expecting to receive an additional USD 4 million from the same businessman under similar fraudulent pretences.
A joint security operation was subsequently conducted, leading to the arrest of 16 suspects, including the alleged prime suspect, Asiimwe Moses.
Security teams also recovered suspected fake gold, incriminating documents and eight motor vehicles allegedly used to facilitate the fraudulent activities.
Police investigations further established that four police officers had abandoned their official duties and allegedly self-deployed to guard the suspects at an illegal gold refinery where the transactions were being facilitated.
The four officers were subjected to disciplinary proceedings on 29 August 2026 and convicted, with two recommended for dismissal and two for discharge.
Police said the officers and the other 12 suspects are being processed for criminal trial, while investigations into the wider syndicate and efforts to recover the defrauded funds are ongoing.
Police have also urged members of the public, particularly those involved in the gold and precious minerals trade, to verify the legitimacy of dealers and refineries before entering into transactions.
