Over 80 victims of the Capital Chicken Ponzi scheme have filed complaints at Kira road and Kampala Central police stations. One of the complainants lost as much as Shs 420 million.
Sources reveal that one retired security officer invested as much as Shs 380 million while another retired civil servant invested Shs 420 million in the scheme.
“Some of these people came here and attempted to create a scene claiming police knew about the Ponzi scheme because the place was being guarded by police officers. We told them that even a civilian who writes seeking police protection we provide it…We don’t register or regulate business operations,” the source said.
The scheme was promising a 15% monthly profit for every amount invested in the chicken business. Capital Chicken had its main office along Kanjokya street in Kampala Central Division, where individuals entrusted their money for investment, with the promise of returns. In the nearly three years it has been in existence, Capital Chicken appeared to run smoothly and its clientele kept growing.
Luke Owoyesigyire, the deputy Kampala metropolitan police spokesperson, said the clients became skeptical when the managers started telling them to come back later when they went to collect their profits or capital.
Last month, on September 29, the scheme clients were shocked to find the office unexpectedly closed. Although Owoyesigyire had earlier computed the lost money to be about Shs 1.6 billion, it is alleged that the money is now over Shs 2 billion as more complaints keep coming in.
“Statements have been recorded, shedding light on transactions. Furthermore, relevant documents pertaining to these transactions have been recovered to aid in our ongoing investigation,” Owoyesigyire said.
Police have identified the key suspects as Pius Wamanga and Ernest Sempebwa who are suspected to have fled the country. Some of the workers of Capital Chicken reportedly also found the offices abruptly closed.
“Our investigators are diligently working to uncover the facts surrounding this alleged fraud. We understand the concerns of the victims and the public, and we are committed to bringing this investigation to a swift and just conclusion,” Owoyesigyire said.
Police have urged the public to continue reporting cases so that satisfying evidence is collected for the prosecution of the suspects once they are apprehended. However, there are groups that have vowed not to report since it is perceived as embarrassing.
Last year, over Shs 2 billion was lost in BLQ’s online gaming ponzi scheme. One of the founders posted on social media thanking Ugandans for ‘donating’ their money and promised to come back with a newer version.
Source: The Observer
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