Travel consultant charged over Shs1.2b theft

A travel consultant has been charged with stealing $320,122 (about Shs1.24 billion) from Africa Travel Limited, where he worked as a travel consultant and account manager.

Abbey Serunkuma, 42, appeared before Buganda Road Chief Magistrate’s Court, presided over by Senior Principal Magistrate Winnie Nankya Jatiko, and denied the theft charge.

Prosecution alleges that between March and September 2026, Serunkuma stole $320,122, equivalent to Shs1,248,476,800, belonging to Africa Travel Limited.

According to the charge sheet, the alleged offence occurred at the company’s offices at Uganda House in Kampala.

Serunkuma, a resident of Kikajjo Central Zone in Kyengera Town Council, Wakiso District, is charged with theft, contrary to Sections 237(1) and 244 of the Penal Code Act.

Following the reading of the charge, his lawyer, Mr Swaibu Kitakule, told court that the defence had intended to apply for bail but was unable to proceed because the prosecution was absent.

“We wanted to seek bail, but since the State is not here, the accused has spent two weeks at CPS, and we pray that we get a shorter adjournment,” Mr Kitakule said.

The lawyer further accused the complainant of using the law to punish his client, arguing that the complainant had not appeared at the police to pursue the matter.

“The complainant is using the law to punish the accused. He did not even come at police. We want court to issue summons to compel him,” Mr Kitakule told court.

However, Ms Nankya said she could not issue witness summons at that stage, noting that she was not even certain whether police inquiries had been completed.

“I even do not know if inquiries are complete. I can not issue witness summons,” Ms Nankya said.

The magistrate remanded Serunkuma until October 30, 2026, when he is expected to return to court for his bail application.