A Chinese national has been charged with stealing Shs210 million from a fellow countryman in botched foreign currency exchange.
Cheng Yi Wei, 36, appeared before Buganda Road Chief Magistrate’s Court presided over by Senior Principal Magistrate Winnie Nankya Jatiko where theft charge was read to him. He denied charge.
Court heard alleged offence occurred between October 22 and 23, 2026 at King Fahad Plaza in Kampala Central Division, where Cheng is accused of stealing Shs210 million belonging to Gong Cheng Tao.
Cheng, tourist and resident of Matugga-Sanga Village in Wakiso District, was remanded until November 11 after magistrate said prosecutor was indisposed.
He faces charge of theft contrary to Sections 237(1) and 244 of Penal Code Act.
Complainant Gong Zheno Tao who deals in wholesale bed covers at Muzinga Building along William Street said he also operates factory in Namanve, Wakiso District.
In statement, Gong said he was looking to convert shillings into US dollars when he contacted Cheng who allegedly offered to help.
Deal began October 22 when Cheng allegedly arranged for Shs41 million to be taken to forex bureau identified as Jabrill at King Fahad Plaza.
Following day, further Shs170 million was delivered to same bureau.
Gong said he expected dollars in exchange but was left waiting.
“To my surprise, the dollars were not given to me,” he told police, adding he contacted his uncle who alerted police.
According to complainant, Cheng was involved in taking money to forex bureau and instructed him to hand it to attendant.
Gong further alleged he initially encountered Chinese man on WeChat who claimed he could exchange shillings for dollars at rate lower than market rate.
Man reportedly asked him to share location so someone could collect money. Cheng allegedly arrived at complainant’s shop before cash was taken to bureau.
Complainant said he intended to exchange Shs210 million and expected equivalent in dollars. However, money was not returned and currency not delivered.
Police subsquently arrested Cheng following complaint.