The head of State House’s Anti-Corruption Unit Col. Edith Nakalema has confirmed investigations into Bank of Uganda officials. News broke earlier this morning that five officials had been arrested in connection with printing Ugandan currency to the tune of Shs90 billion for their own benefit.
Col. Nakalema has confirmed the investigation, though she was reluctant to divulge details. However, she hinted that it was in connection to “procurement.”
“The State House Anti-Corruption Unit in conjunction with Bank of Uganda is carrying out a special investigation on a matter pertaining to the Bank’s procurement and supply chain activities,” Nakalema said in a statement released this afternoon.
“The matter under investigation involves a recent procurement consignment. A number of senior bank personnel, Customs (Uganda Revenue Authority) and Civil Aviation Authority personnel are being questioned,” she said.
Nakalema confirmed earlier reports that the investigation was on the invitation by the BoU Governor.
Nakalema assured the public that BoU operations remain intact and uninterrupted.
Matooke Republic understands that investigation follows an April consignment of newly printed Ugandan currency that had more palettes than what was indicated on the bill of lading.
A source told Matooke Republic that this is not the first time BoU officials are bringing in more items than they are supposed to import as their consignments are usually regarded as “classified.”