The number of individuals allegedly defrauded by Skypins Tours and Travel Company has surged from 80 to over 350, with the majority of victims being men, according to Kampala Metropolitan Deputy Police Spokesperson, Luke Owoyesigyire.
Police say the total amount of money lost now stands at approximately Shs2 billion, following a series of complaints from people who were promised overseas jobs that never materialised.
Owoyesigyire confirmed that police have opened a general inquiry file to aid investigations into the alleged fraud. He also revealed that many victims were subjected to threats and intimidation whenever they demanded updates or refunds from the company’s director, Asiimwe Christian, popularly known as Don Chris.
According to reports, Skypins lured jobseekers into paying between Shs3.5 million and Shs10 million, claiming it would secure employment opportunities in countries such as Canada, the UK, Qatar, Dubai, and Luxembourg. Victims were initially invited to the company’s offices at Haruna Mall in Ntinda, where most of the payments were made. The company later relocated to Kitende along Entebbe Road, making it difficult for many to trace them.
Police have since launched a manhunt for Don Chris, who is believed to have fled the country through the Malaba border on June 20.
In a further blow to the victims, police confirmed that Skypins Tours and Travel was never licensed by the Ministry of Gender, Labour, and Social Development to operate as an external labour recruitment agency.
Investigations are ongoing as authorities continue to gather statements from victims and track the suspect’s movements. Police have urged anyone with additional information to come forward.
