Former Vision Group accountant to start defence over sh292m fraud

Court has ordered the former Vision Group senior accountant accused of embezzling over sh292m from the company to start his defence on 8^th November.

Justice Margaret Tibulya of the Anti-Corruption Court in Kololo on Monday directed Peter Mubaale to start his defence after court ruled that he has a case to answer over the alleged fraud. 

John Isabirye the lawyer representing Mubaale confirmed to court that his client is ready to start his defence on 8^th November.

Mubaale is charged with embezzlement, theft, causing financial loss and fraudulent false accounting.

Prosecution led by senior state attorneys Barbara Kawuma and Tom Walugembe said Mubaale in January 2008 and May 2013 embezzled money which was payments from advertising clients that came to his possession as Vision Group senior accountant. 

A total of 10 prosecution witnesses testified in court some of whom said Mubaale allegedly instructed them to pay money to him.

Prosecution said Mubaale allegedly issued several fake receipts to different clients and illegally received money which he did not remit to the company. He denied the charges. 

Under the Anti- Corruption Act, any person found guilty of embezzlement is liable to 14 years imprisonment, causing financial loss carries 14 years imprisonment or a fine of sh6.7m, and fraudulent false accounting carries 7 years imprisonment or a fine of sh3.3m or both.