In a disturbing turn of events, Tian Jinxia lias Candy a Chinese national and investor, has lodged a formal complaint against LA-CEDRI BUREAU DE CHANGE LIMITED, accusing its employees of fraudulent activities.
The incident, which took place in May 2023 at the Garden City branch in Kampala, involves a failed transfer of USD 120,000 intended for business purposes in China.
Candy, who holds Chinese passport No. EL2423235, recounts her experience with the bureau de change in a detailed statement obtained by investigative website.
Upon arriving at the branch, she handed over the substantial sum to the employees, one of whom she later identified as Kizza L. Hillary.
The employees assured her that the money had been successfully transferred to China. LA-CEDRI also operatives World Remit which transfers money worldwide.
However, it soon became apparent that this was not the case, as the intended recipient did not receive the funds.
When Candy sought an explanation, she was met with evasive responses and no clear answer.
The situation took a more sinister turn when Kizza led her to another accomplice, Bituma Mohamood.
Mohamood issued her a check, numbered 0019710253, for UGX 534,105,000 (approximately USD 143,000) as a refund.
This check, however, was dishonored upon presentation at Stanbic Bank, revealing itself to be worthless.
In a bid to recover her funds and seek justice, Candy reported the matter to the Police, filing a criminal case registered as KMP/GEF/322/2023 for obtaining money by false pretenses and theft.
Despite her efforts, the suspects were not detained, and the case has remained stagnant.
The lack of progress and transparency has led Candy to suspect that the Police may have been compromised, further compounding her distress.
The Investigation Officer (IO) managing the case at Central Police in Kampala a one Wandera couldn’t be reached for a comment as to why there is no progress on the case.
Feeling helpless and ignored, Candy has now appealed to Edith Nakalema, Head of the State House Investors Protection Unit, to intervene.
In her letter dated February 2, 2024, she expressed her frustration and the urgent need for a thorough investigation to ensure justice is served.
She emphasised that the case had not received the due consideration it warranted, suggesting that the accused might have unduly influenced the authorities.
The gravity of this situation highlights the vulnerabilities faced by foreign investors in Uganda.
Candy’s ordeal underscores the critical need for robust mechanisms to protect investors from fraudulent activities and ensure swift, impartial justice.9
Her appeal to Nakalema’s office is a plea not only for personal redress but also for the assurance that Uganda remains a safe and reliable destination for international investment.
As Tian awaits a response from the State House Investors Protection Unit, her story has started to resonate with other investors who have faced similar challenges in Uganda.
Her courage in speaking out may inspire others to come forward, shedding light on systemic issues that require urgent attention.
Speaking to Hilary Kizza, whom this website learnt is the front and a nephew of the owner of the forex bureau said that he was unaware of the case reported by Candy although he acknowledges him this Chinese national.
“We received the money but was never cash,” Hilary told this website on Tuesday morning before adding that, he has been summoned to three different Police stations and has made his statement.
“Go to Kibuli I have a statement, also at CPS and Kampala Metropolitan East.”
When this website pressed Hilary for details he said, “you will need to see our boss.” He would later label Candy a con star.
Asked to expound, Hilary said Candy was trying to “embezzle” the forex bureau with the help of other four Chinese.
However, he didn’t explain. “Bye for now I have to work.” He said.
In the meantime, Candy remains hopeful that her appeal will lead to a comprehensive investigation and the eventual recovery of her funds.
Her persistence in seeking justice is a testament to the resilience and determination of investors who continue to contribute to Uganda’s economic growth despite the challenges they face.
For now, the business community watches closely, hoping that Candy’s case will prompt significant reforms and a renewed commitment to protecting investors in Uganda.
