Pastor Solomon Mwesige, head of Good News Church and chief executive officer of KSTV Uganda, has reportedly been arrested as investigators probe an alleged Shs2.9 billion gold theft involving American investors and a gold-related project in Uganda’s mineral-rich Karamoja sub-region.
Mwesige was reportedly arrested on October 2 as police and anti-corruption authorities intensified investigations into the circumstances surrounding the multimillion-shilling investment and the alleged loss of the funds.
The case has raised questions about how the money was handled, what business arrangements were made and whether the funds were used for their intended purpose.
At the centre of the investigation are American investors George Mitchell Lepak and Dylan Robert Bluma, who are reportedly connected to the gold-related venture in Karamoja.
During questioning, Mwesige reportedly acknowledged knowing the two Americans and explained that the money was used to establish Ukuri Aperture Science Innovation Ltd, a company operating in the gold-rich region.
However, investigators are expected to establish the details of the financial transactions, including how the funds were transferred, how they were spent and whether the money can be accounted for.
The investigation is also expected to examine the company’s operations, the agreements between the parties and the respective roles of those involved in the investment.
The reported arrest puts the spotlight on a gold-related business venture involving foreign investors and a substantial amount of money. It also raises questions that investigators must answer before the circumstances surrounding the alleged theft can be fully understood.
Karamoja has attracted commercial interest because of its mineral resources, including gold. But investments in the sector can involve substantial financial commitments, making transparency, proper documentation and accountability essential when disputes arise over money and business operations.
Authorities are expected to determine whether the reported loss resulted from a criminal act, a commercial dispute or other circumstances established by the evidence. The investigation may also establish whether other individuals or entities had a role in the transactions.
Despite the seriousness of the allegations, important details remain unclear. The available information does not establish whether the money has been recovered, whether additional suspects have been identified or whether formal charges have been filed against Mwesige.
His reported arrest is not proof that he committed an offence. Investigators must establish the facts, and any criminal responsibility must be determined through the legal process.
As the probe continues, attention will remain on the alleged Shs2.9 billion loss, the American investors’ dealings with the company and the explanation given regarding the use of the funds.
The central question is whether the investment money was properly accounted for and what the evidence will reveal about the transactions behind the alleged gold theft.
