Former Assistant Minister for Internal Security in Kenya’s late President Mwai Kibaki’s government, Stephen Tarus, has been apprehended in Uganda on charges related to gold smuggling.
Tarus found himself remanded at Luzira Prison on Wednesday, accused of falsifying export documents.
The ruling by Justice Esther Asiimwe dictates that he will be held in custody until January 18.
Uganda Revenue Authority (URA) officials disclosed that Tarus was detained following an investigation that exposed his alleged participation in an illicit gold smuggling operation, causing significant financial losses for the Ugandan government.
The gold smuggling ring, purportedly overseen by Tarus, is suspected to have successfully evaded customs duties and taxes.
Although specific details regarding the extent and duration of the smuggling operation are yet to be disclosed by Ugandan authorities, it is anticipated that a thorough inquiry will be conducted to dismantle the network and determine the precise financial impact on the Ugandan government.
Tarus, who also served as the High Commissioner to Australia from 2009 to 2012, now faces legal repercussions in Uganda over these smuggling allegations.
