Socialite Don Chris arrested over labour recruitment fraud

What the report says

Police in Uganda have arrested city socialite Christian Asiimwe, widely known as Don Chris, in connection with allegations of obtaining money by false pretence and fraudulent recruitment of people for jobs abroad, according to The Observer. Kampala Metropolitan Police spokesperson Rachael Kawala said the arrest took place on Wednesday night at a bar in Zana, in Makindye-Ssabagabo municipality, Wakiso district, after months of investigation and a nationwide search.

The case centers on claims that Asiimwe, a former director of the now-defunct Sky Pins Tours and Travel, took money from hundreds of job seekers by promising employment in countries including Canada, the United Kingdom, Qatar and Dubai. The jobs allegedly included roles such as waiters, cleaners and caregivers. Police say more than 500 complainants have already recorded statements, with individual payments reported at between Shs 5 million and Shs 10 million depending on the job and destination.

The reported fraud is said to have run from 2022 to 2025. The investigation gained momentum in June 2025 after at least 85 job seekers petitioned then minister Balaam Barugahara, prompting a CID probe. Complaints later expanded as investigators traced the company’s offices from Ntinda to Kitende, where they were found abandoned. Police say the total amount collected may have reached between Shs 1.4 billion and Shs 1.75 billion, though this figure is based on investigations and complaints.

As a broader matter, labour recruitment scams have been a recurring concern in Uganda, where demand for overseas work can make applicants vulnerable to false promises. Police say Asiimwe remains in custody and is expected to face court as inquiries continue.