CAA boss loses sh300m in scam

By Simon Masaba

The Police are investigating a case in which the managing director of the Civil Aviation Authority (CAA), Wenceslaus Rama Makuza, was reportedly conned of sh337m in a botched bus purchase deal.

In a case filed at the Special Investigations Unit (SIU) in Kireka, Makuza claims he entrusted the money meant to buy reconditioned buses to Peter Muhendo. Sources said Makuza and Muhendo are related.

Muhendo, who was detained at SIU but later released on bond, reportedly bought three fake buses locally and registered them in his name.

When contacted about the matter, Makuza, said: “I cannot explain further. Go to SIU in Kireka who are investigating the matter for further details.”

The Police impounded one of the buses and parked it at the SIU offices, pending further investigations. The three buses are registered as UAH 305T, UAM 734H and UAF 950T.

Patrick Onyango, the deputy Police spokesperson, said Muhendo had concealed documents that proved he was the owner of the buses.

This, Onyango said, was witnessed by SIU detectives who searched Muhendo’s premises.

“Not only were the buses old and purchased from a different company, they were not registered under the names of Makuza, who provided the money,” Onyango said.

He added that Muhendo registered the buses under Friends Executive Coaches, yet Makuza had directed him to register them under Sungura Coaches.

Last Thursday, the Police arrested Muhendo. Onyango said they were investigating cases of theft and forgery against him.

According to the Police, in an attempt to elude arrest, Muhendo reportedly acquired a loan of sh26m purportedly to purchase of one of the buses.