Police in Lira City have arrested four suspects following the recovery of bundles of United States Dollar notes suspected to be counterfeit, with a purported face value of $9 million (about Shs33.75 billion), during an operation in Lira City East Division.
The intelligence-led operation was carried out at Ireda Shamba Cell after police received information that suspected counterfeit currency and related materials were being kept at a residential property belonging to a local businesswoman.
North Kyoga Region Police spokesperson Patrick Jimmy Okema said the operation was conducted by officers from Lira City East Division following a duly issued search certificate.
“Acting on the information received, a team led by the DPC Lira City East Division proceeded to the scene with a duly issued search certificate and conducted a lawful search of the premises,” Okema said.
During the search, officers reportedly recovered a safe from the residence of a suspect identified only as Sandra. Police say the suspect told investigators that the safe had been delivered to her by a maid.
The search was later expanded, leading to the recovery of several motor vehicle logbooks and additional United States dollar notes in various denominations.
According to Okema, preliminary findings indicate that the safe had been delivered to the residence by Siwa Tonny, who is currently detained at Lira City Central Police Station on allegations of obtaining money by false pretences.
“When officers opened the safe, they recovered approximately 100 bundles of USD 100 notes suspected to be counterfeit, with a purported face value of USD 9 million, equivalent to about UGX 33.75 billion,” Okema said.
Police further allege that Siwa Tonny admitted to transporting the safe and indicated that the group had been involved in similar activities for some time, with suspected associates operating in Soroti City.
Investigators believe the suspects may be part of a wider network engaged in counterfeit currency-related activities, although this is still under verification.
The recovered currency has been secured as exhibits and will be forwarded to the Bank of Uganda for forensic examination to determine its authenticity.
Police said investigations are ongoing and more arrests are expected as efforts to dismantle the suspected network continue.
