(Masaka) – A Lukaya businessman has been remanded in custody on multiple charges related to land disputes and fraudulent activities.
Elias Kasirye, a businessman, land dealer, and money lender, appeared before the Masaka Chief Magistrates Court on October 28, 2024. He faces serious charges including malicious damage, forceful entry, unlawful eviction, and theft. The court has remanded him until November 11, 2024, as the case continues.
According to a statement from the State House Anti-Corruption Unit (SHACU), the investigation involved collaboration with the Criminal Investigation Directorate (CID) and the Office of the Directorate of Public Prosecution (ODPP). The charges against Kasirye stem from allegations that he collaborated with the daughters of the late Francis Lukwago to create a forged land agreement. This agreement, backdated to 2018, falsely indicated that Lukwago had sold a kibanja—land with eucalyptus trees—to Kasirye. This fraudulent act was allegedly intended to undermine Paul Walakira, a legitimate purchaser of the same kibanja.
SHACU’s statement detailed that Kasirye used the forged agreement to process a land title. In June 2024, he reportedly unlawfully evicted Walakira from the property without any court order or decree. Following the eviction, it is alleged that Kasirye cut down the eucalyptus trees, sold them, and graded the land, significantly altering its condition.
| Date | Incident Description | Accused |
|---|---|---|
| October 28, 2024 | Kasirye arraigned on charges of land fraud | Elias Kasirye |
| June 2024 | Unlawful eviction of Paul Walakira | Elias Kasirye |
