The Directorate of Criminal Investigations has arrested Yinghe Chen, a 43-year-old Chinese national residing in Bukoto, Nakawa Division. Chen’s arrest, conducted this afternoon, comes in connection with allegations of defrauding Ugandans of Shs4.5 billion through a fraudulent betting scheme operated by BLQ Sports SMC.
Deputy police spokesperson Polly Namaye said that Chen’s arrest follows a thorough interagency investigation conducted by the National Cyber Task Force into the activities of BLQ Sports SMC.
With this arrest, the total number of individuals apprehended in connection with the scam has risen to five. On May 11, 2023, Awori Mary, Chen’s wife and registered Director of the betting company, was taken into custody. Subsequently, on June 12, the police arrested Akoth Justine Oboth, Achola Mary, and Biira Shamim, all of whom were produced in court. These arrests shed light on the alleged conspiracy orchestrated under the unregistered betting company, BLQ Sports SMC, which defrauded approximately 6,000 Ugandans.
Operating under the slogan “You lose, You win,” BLQ Sports SMC attracted numerous individuals to its online betting platform. However, investigations revealed that the company was involved in fraudulent activities, resulting in substantial financial losses for its victims.
Namaye emphasized that the Directorate of CID is collaborating closely with the Director of Public Prosecutions to ensure the swift presentation of Yinghe Chen in court.