Kampala, Uganda: A porter at the upscale Kampala Serena Hotel has been remanded to Luzira Prison over allegations of stealing $12,000 (approximately Shs45 million) that had been earmarked to purchase a gift for South Sudan President Salva Kiir Mayardit.
The suspect, William Ssemata, 39, a resident of Nansana in Wakiso District, appeared before Grade One Magistrate Rophine Achayo at Buganda Road Chief Magistrate’s Court on Monday, April 27, where he was charged with theft contrary to Sections 237(1) and 244 of the Penal Code Act.
Prosecution, led by Grace Amy, told court that investigations into the matter are still ongoing and requested more time to complete inquiries. Ssemata was consequently remanded until May 13, when he is expected to return to court for plea before Trial Chief Magistrate Ritah Neumbe Kidasa.
According to court records, the complaint was filed by Brigadier General Aaron Jeremiah Balla, a South Sudanese military officer who had arrived in Uganda from Malaysia via Entebbe International Airport on April 12.
Balla reportedly carried over $12,000 in cash, which he had set aside specifically to purchase a luxury watch intended as a gift for President Kiir. After exchanging part of the money at the airport, he checked into Serena Hotel where his luggage—including three suitcases and a handbag—was received and processed by hotel staff.
Investigations indicate that Ssemata, who was on duty as a porter, was assigned to deliver the luggage to the guest’s room.
Hotel Assistant Security Manager Moses Olowo told investigators that internal reviews, including CCTV analysis, identified Ssemata as the only staff member who handled the luggage prior to its delivery.
Footage reportedly shows him entering a lift alone with the bags, with no evidence of any other person accessing the items. The money was discovered missing shortly after the luggage reached the room.
Ssemata was arrested on April 18 and handed over to police. He has not yet entered a plea as investigations continue.
The case has drawn attention to security handling procedures in high-end hospitality facilities, particularly involving high-value items belonging to international guests.
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