The State House Anti-Corruption Unit (SHACU), in collaboration with the Criminal Investigations Directorate (CID) and the Office of the Director of Public Prosecutions (ODPP), has charged Elizabeth Esther Steenkamp, a Kenyan national and Managing Director of Washa Lidjiwe Investments Limited, over her alleged involvement in a high-value gold scam.
Steenkamp appeared before the Makindye Chief Magistrate’s Court on Thursday, where she was charged with obtaining money by false pretence and conspiracy to commit a felony. She was remanded until 28 October 2025 as investigations continue.
According to prosecutors, Steenkamp and others still at large allegedly defrauded American investor Vladimir Toussaint Yvens of USD 255,650 (approximately Shs980 million) between June and August 2025.
The prosecution claims that the accused convinced the investor that she could facilitate the export of 46 kilogrammes of gold from Kampala to New York. The victim reportedly wired the funds for declaration fees, government royalties, and export documentation — but the gold was never dispatched, and all communication with the suspects was abruptly cut off.
Investigators say the fraudulent transactions were conducted at Plot 244, Bemba Road, Munyonyo, where the accused operated. The case highlights the growing trend of transnational gold scams targeting foreign investors under the guise of legitimate mineral export businesses.
Authorities have confirmed that efforts are underway to track down Steenkamp’s alleged accomplices, while the State House Anti-Corruption Unit has urged victims of similar schemes to come forward and assist with ongoing investigations.
