Hassan Lutaaya, a boda boda rider from Kitaara, Entebbe Municipality, has been remanded to Luzira Prison until December 12, 2024, over allegations of defrauding Shs600 million from the family of the late Masaka Diocesan Bishop, John Baptist Kaggwa.
Lutaaya appeared before Buganda Road Chief Magistrate Ronald Kayizzi on Monday, facing a charge of theft. Despite pleading not guilty to the allegations, the court did not allow him to apply for bail.
Additionally, the absence of a prosecutor during the session meant he was not informed of the progress of investigations.
According to court documents, between September and November 5, 2024, Lutaaya and his accomplices allegedly orchestrated a sophisticated fraud targeting Bishop Kaggwa’s relatives, Cissy Nakivumbi and Samalie Lwanga.
The suspects reportedly claimed they were in possession of a bag left by the late bishop containing a significant sum of money, fake US dollars, and sewing machines.
The victims were allegedly tricked into believing they could profit by helping exchange the fake dollars for genuine currency and finding buyers for the purported items.
The suspects initially provided a small amount of counterfeit currency, which the victims successfully converted into genuine dollars. This apparent success convinced the victims to invest heavily in what they believed to be a lucrative deal.
The fraud reportedly involved foreign nationals who arrived in luxury vehicles to meet the victims, creating an illusion of wealth and legitimacy. This elaborate setup, combined with convincing details about the “project,” led the victims to part with over Shs600 million.
Lutaaya will remain in custody as investigations continue, with the next hearing set for December 12, 2024.
