Businessman Remanded Over UGX376 Million Fake Gold Scam Targeting U.S. Investor

Egesa Mackland, a Ugandan businessman, has been charged before the KCCA Grade 1 Magistrates’ Court. The Anti-Corruption Unit at State House, in conjunction with the Criminal Investigations Directorate and ODPP Uganda, led the prosecution.

Mackland faces charges of obtaining money by false pretense and conspiracy to defraud. His appearance in court follows a joint investigation into a high-value fraud scheme targeting a foreign investor.

According to prosecution, between February and June 2024, Mackland and others conspired to defraud an American national. They allegedly misled him with a fake gold deal.

The accused falsely claimed they could supply the investor with 20 kilograms of pure gold. The promise, however, was not backed by any genuine product or intent to deliver.

In total, the American investor was reportedly swindled out of USD 105,000. The money was obtained under false pretenses, according to court filings.

Mackland now joins his co-accused, Kizito Dalton, who was earlier charged and remanded on similar grounds. Both are believed to have operated together in executing the fraud.

The court session was held at the KCCA Grade 1 Magistrates’ Court, where both the prosecution and defense made brief submissions. No plea was taken.

Following the court appearance, the magistrate ordered Mackland to be remanded. He will remain in custody pending further hearings.

His next court appearance is scheduled for July 23, 2025. Investigations into the case are still ongoing as authorities aim to recover the defrauded funds.