More than 80 individuals have lodged complaints with the Kira Road and Kampala Central Police Stations regarding their involvement in the Capital Chicken Ponzi scheme. According to sources, one of the complainants reported losses of up to 420 million Shillings. It is anticipated that the total number of victims may surpass 80, as two case files, GEF 38/2023 and GEF 39/2023, have been initiated at Kira Road and Kampala Central Police Stations, respectively.
Reports indicate that among those affected are retired security officers who invested over 380 million Shillings and retired civil servants who entrusted 420 million Shillings to Capital Chicken.
Sources have revealed that some individuals had invested their Emyooga funds in Capital Chicken, enticed by the promise of a 15% monthly profit on their investments in the chicken business.
Capital Chicken operated its main office on Kanjokya Street in Kampala Central Division, where investors placed their money with the expectation of lucrative returns. Over nearly three years, the scheme appeared to operate smoothly, attracting a growing clientele.
Luke Owoyesigyire, Deputy Kampala Metropolitan Police Spokesperson, disclosed that clients began to grow suspicious when the scheme’s managers repeatedly deferred payouts or returns.
The situation took a shocking turn on September 29 when investors arrived at the office to find it unexpectedly closed. While Owoyesigyire had initially estimated losses at 1.6 billion Shillings, reports suggest that the figure may now approach two billion Shillings as additional complaints pour in.
ASP Owoyesigyire stated, “Statements have been recorded, shedding light on transactions. Furthermore, relevant documents pertaining to these transactions have been recovered to aid in our ongoing investigation.”
Authorities have identified key suspects, Pius Wamanga and Ernest Sempebwa. Ernest, who are believed to have fled the country. Additionally, some Capital Chicken employees found their workplace abruptly closed.
Owoyesigyire reassured the public, saying, “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.”
Police have encouraged the public to continue reporting cases to gather sufficient evidence for the eventual prosecution of the suspects. However, certain groups have chosen not to report their losses due to concerns about embarrassment.
