news 7 November 2026 Daily Monitor (Uganda)

Somali Businessman Recovers Lost Millions After Spotting Alleged Bugiri Robbers

Two suspects have been arrested in Bugiri District after allegedly robbing a Somali businessman of Shs208 million in a fake currency exchange scam and attempting to lure him into another trap. Source: https://www.monitor.co.ug/uganda/news/national/somali-businessman-lured-into-fake-dollar-exchange-robbed-of-shs208m-5662638

Police in Bugiri District have taken two suspects into custody following a sophisticated fake currency exchange scam that resulted in the robbery of Shs208 million from a Somali businessman. The arrested individuals have been identified as Richard Emuloni from Bugiri Municipality and John Tukei from Iganga District.

According to Busoga East Regional Police Spokesperson ASP Michael Kasadha, the victim, 55-year-old Isaac Mohammed from Malaba, Kenya, was initially approached by the suspects under the guise of trading genuine US dollars for Kenyan shillings. The fraudsters reportedly lured Mohammed to the Malaba border, where they administered an incapacitating substance before fleeing with KSh6.65 million.

Remarkably, the suspects attempted a secondary trap two days later using different phone numbers. They directed Mohammed to a petrol station in Bugiri before moving him toward Nawanduki Village. Recognizing his original attackers, Mohammed raised an immediate alarm that drew the attention of local residents and boda boda riders.

The community intercepted the suspects in Buwunga Sub-county. Responding officers from Buwunga and Bugiri Central police stations rescued the duo from an angry mob. They are currently receiving medical treatment at Bugiri District Main Hospital under strict police guard.

Authorities have impounded a red Bajaj Boxer motorcycle believed to have been utilized in the crime. Police note that at least three similar fake dollar cases have been tied to the same location and criminal network. Investigators are actively searching for the missing bag of fake currency and remaining accomplices.

Security agencies have issued a stern warning to traders against pursuing informal foreign exchange deals with attractive rates, urging the public to utilize licensed financial institutions exclusively. The suspects will face formal robbery charges once ongoing investigations conclude.