This archive report was first published on 1 July 2019.
On July 1, 2019, a shipment of Uganda Shillings 350 billion ($100 million) arrived in Entebbe, Uganda, after being printed in France. The central bank had chartered a plane to transport the cash, but upon arrival, it was discovered that the cargo hold also contained several tons of other importers' goods.
The real controversy, however, revolves around a reported additional 90 billion Uganda Shillings ($25 million) that allegedly did not make it to the central bank's strong rooms or any government premises. This has led to a wild rumor that the missing cash is being used by some men to lure women into romantic relationships.
According to reports, these men would pretend to be disturbed and share their 'problem' with a female workmate, claiming that their brother was involved in the heist and they need to hide the money. The woman would then be co-opted into the operation, and her house would be inspected to see if it could serve as a safe haven for the cash.
While the authenticity of this scam is unclear, it is evident that some individuals are taking advantage of the situation to exploit women. To put an end to these games, it has been suggested that the central bank declare that the 90 billion has been found, even if it never existed in the first place.
