CID probe Uganda Airlines over alleged abuse of office and embezzlement

KAMPALA — The Criminal Investigations Directorate (CID), working jointly with the State House Anti-Corruption Unit, has launched investigations into alleged abuse of office, embezzlement of funds and falsification of accounts involving officials of Uganda Airlines.

In a letter dated January 7, 2026, addressed to the Chief Executive Officer of Uganda Airlines, the CID formally requested extensive financial, procurement and operational documents to aid ongoing investigations into the national carrier’s financial transactions.

The request, referenced CID/ACU/395/25, seeks certified copies of key records, including the approved National Airline Business and Implementation Plan, the airline’s budget for the Financial Year 2024/2025, and minutes of the Contracts Committee that approved the purchase of Boeing aircraft.

Investigators have also demanded procurement files related to several service providers, including Mixjet Flight Support Services, Associated Energy Group, Nyanzi Tours and Travel, and Aircraft Leasing Services (ALS) Limited. In addition, CID is seeking documentation on the procurement file for the construction of Uganda Airlines offices in Entebbe.

Financial accountability forms a major part of the probe. The police have asked for the internal audit report for FY 2024/2025, revenue accounting and ticketing records, banking and cash receipt records, as well as expenditure and supplier transaction details for fuel during the same period.

CID further requested a list of companies that supported the launch of the Uganda Airlines London route, a flagship expansion that marked the carrier’s entry into long-haul operations.

According to the letter, Detective Superintendent of Police (D/SP) Nakatudde Winniefred has been assigned to receive the requested information on behalf of the investigators.

The communication was signed by Lumala Fed on behalf of the Deputy Director of CID in charge of Economics Fraud and Anti-Corruption, with copies sent to the Director of CID and the Head of the State House Anti-Corruption Unit.

Uganda Airlines has not yet publicly commented on the investigation. The probe adds to growing scrutiny over the management of public funds in state-owned enterprises, particularly those receiving significant government financing.