By Our Reporter
NATIONAL
A Kenyan national operating her business in Kampala, Uganda has been remanded to Luzira Prison on allegations of defrauding an American investor of USD 255,650, equivalent to Shs896, 097,988.75.
Elizabeth Esther Steenkamp, Managing Director of Washa Lidjiwe Investments Limited, appeared before the Makindye Chief Magistrate’s Court on Friday, 17th October, 2025. She was charged with Obtaining Money by False Pretence and Conspiracy to Commit a Felony and been remanded until 28/10/2025.
According to the State House Anti-Corruption Unit that carried out the investigations and arrest, Steenkamp and others still at large, conspired to defraud American businessman Vladimir Toussaint Yvens of USD 255,650 under the pretext that they would facilitate the export of 46 kilograms of gold from Kampala, Uganda, to New York, USA.
It is alleged that this scheme was orchestrated between June and August 2025, at Plot 244 Bemba Road, Munyonyo, Makindye Division, Kampala District.
The accused and others still at large convinced the investor to remit the funds, claiming it was necessary to cover declaration fees, government royalties, and documentation for the gold export.
However, despite receiving the funds, the gold was never exported, and the suspects reportedly ceased all communication with the investor.
