national 3 June 2026 Daily Monitor (Uganda)
Court Orders Conclusion of Shs220 Million Fraud Trial Against Shumuk Boss Shukla
The Nakawa Chief Magistrate's Court has ordered businessman Mukesh Shukla to face his Shs220 million fraud trial without further delays, demanding the completion of cross-examination on a set date. Shukla was arrested in court and had his sureties cancelled, with family members stepping in as new guarantors. Source: https://www.monitor.co.ug/uganda/news/national/court-directs-on-shs220m-fraud-case-involving-shumuk-boss-shukla-5483714
Nakawa Chief Magistrate Christine Nantege has issued a firm directive for the conclusion of the protracted fraud case involving Mukesh Shukla, proprietor of Shumuk Aluminium Industries. The businessman appeared in court after a significant absence, prompting strong action from the bench.
During the hearing, Shukla was arrested and detained for approximately three hours before proceedings commenced, according to the complainant, Shahid Mahmood Alvi. The court also revoked Shukla’s previous sureties, mandating that fresh guarantors be presented. His wife and son subsequently provided assurances to the court, pledging his continued attendance.
Chief Magistrate Nantege stressed the urgent need to resolve the matter, warning against any further postponements. A final hearing date of July 15, 2026, was set, with a strict order for the cross-examination to be completed on that day.
The case centers on allegations that Shukla and others defrauded an associate of over Shs220 million by making false representations concerning land transactions. Shukla, along with his company, manager Judith Ayebare, and accountant Kadikar Dharamdip Anilkumar, faces charges of obtaining money by false pretence and conspiracy to defraud.
Court documents indicate the accused purportedly leased two plots of land in the Banda and Nakawa Industrial Areas between November 2020 and November 2021, allegedly receiving approximately USD 27,950 and over Shs116 million from Alvi Auto Village Ltd under false pretences.
This directive signals a move towards concluding years of litigation for the Shumuk boss, who was previously remanded to Luzira Prison after his initial arrest. The court’s decisive action underscores its commitment to bringing the case to a swift closure.