The number of people claiming to have lost money in an alleged labour recruitment fraud linked to businessman Asiimwe Christian, popularly known as Don Chris, has risen to 655, with police estimating that the alleged losses now exceed Shs2 billion.
Kampala Metropolitan Police spokesperson Racheal Kawala gave the update on Monday, August 31, saying more alleged victims continue to come forward and record statements as investigations into the matter continue.
“We have over 655 victims who have come forward, and we have recorded their statements. It is alleged that the money obtained is over Shs2b,” Kawala said.
Police had recorded statements from more than 500 alleged victims when Don Chris was arrested on August 27. Asiimwe, a former director of the now-defunct labour recruitment company Sky Pins, is accused of obtaining money by false pretences after allegedly promising job seekers employment opportunities abroad between 2022 and 2025.
The alleged destinations included Canada, the United Kingdom, Qatar and Dubai, with promised jobs ranging from waiters and cleaners to caregivers. According to police, some of the alleged victims paid between Shs5 million and Shs10 million, depending on the job and destination.
Police say investigations are ongoing as more complainants continue to come forward. The growing number of statements is expected to help investigators establish the full extent of the alleged scheme and the total amount of money involved.