Socialite Arrested in Alleged Overseas Job Scam
Socialite Christian Asiimwe, widely known as Don Chris, has been arrested in Uganda following an investigation into an alleged overseas job scam that police say defrauded more than 500 job seekers. Asiimwe, a former director of the now-defunct labour recruitment agency Sky Pins (also known as Skypins Tours and Travel), was picked up by law enforcement officers at around 2:00 AM on Thursday at a local bar in Zana, within Makindye-Ssabagabo Municipality, Wakiso District.
Kampala Metropolitan Police Spokesperson, SP Racheal Kawala, confirmed the arrest, stating that the suspect allegedly operated a fraudulent labour recruitment scheme targeting unsuspecting Ugandans.
Alleged Scheme and Victim Payments
Ms Kawala revealed that the suspect allegedly obtained money from people between 2022 and 2025 after promising to secure them jobs in countries including Canada, the United Kingdom, Qatar, and Dubai. She noted that the advertised opportunities were primarily for entry-level and service positions, including roles as waiters, cleaners, and caregivers.
According to statements given by victims to investigators, Asiimwe allegedly demanded payments ranging from Shs5 million to Shs10 million per applicant, with the precise amount varying based on the desired job role and destination country.
Investigation and Custody
Ms. Kawala said police have recorded statements from more than 500 alleged victims as investigators build a case against the suspect. She confirmed that Asiimwe remains in custody.
"The suspect allegedly obtained money from several people between 2022 and 2025 after promising to secure them jobs in countries including Canada, the United Kingdom, Qatar, and Dubai," she stated.
Asiimwe will be formally produced in court to face charges in accordance with the law once investigations are complete, according to police.
Public Warning
In the wake of the arrest, authorities issued a stern warning to the public, urging citizens to verify the legitimacy of recruitment firms with the Ministry of Gender, Labour, and Social Development before making payments. The warning underscores heightened public concerns about fraudulent labour recruitment schemes in Uganda, where vulnerable citizens seeking overseas employment can be targeted for large sums.
Police also appealed to anyone with information relevant to the case to report to the nearest police station.