KAMPALA, Uganda — The Criminal Investigations Directorate (CID) has revealed that Chris Asiimwe, popularly known as Don Chris and proprietor of Skylines Tours and Travel Company, allegedly defrauded hundreds of Ugandans of over Shs 1.7 billion in a bogus overseas jobs scam.
Kampala Metropolitan Police Spokesperson Patrick Onyango confirmed that Asiimwe Chris, also known as Don Chris, is accused of promising victims job opportunities abroad but failing to deliver on these commitments.
CID investigations indicate that Asiimwe swindled approximately Shs 1.750 billion from 350 job seekers between 2023 and 2024.
“Initially, 85 victims reported being conned, but the number has now risen to over 350. The total amount swindled is around 1.750 billion shillings, with each victim paying between 3.5 million to 10 million shillings,” Onyango stated.
During the ongoing investigation, police searched the company’s office, which was found abandoned, and successfully recovered several exhibits that are expected to further their probe into the alleged scam.
“The offices were abandoned, but we recovered some important exhibits. Don Chris is wanted for fraud, and police are tracking leads to apprehend him. We urge other victims who haven’t registered their complaints to come forward and assist in these investigations,” Onyango added.
Sources suggest that the suspect has since fled the country. Investigations have further revealed that Skylines Tours and Travel Company was a fictitious entity, falsely promising employment in various countries, including Canada, the UK, Qatar, Dubai, and Luxembourg.
Also Read: Four Ugandan police officers remanded over $105,000 gold heist
Victims were allegedly informed they could travel on a “loan” basis, requiring upfront payments of half the total fees, which varied depending on the supposed job contract.
Unfortunately, numerous Ugandans continue to fall victim to fraudulent travel agencies that promise fake job opportunities abroad.
Despite government efforts to shut down several such companies, new ones persistently emerge, preying on desperate young job seekers who are seeking better prospects in countries like Canada, the Middle East, and South America.
These scammers consistently exploit vulnerable individuals, often demanding substantial upfront payments for purported job placements that never materialize.
