The Nakawa Court Chief Magistrate Christine Nantege, has directed businessman Mukesh Shukla, the proprietor of Shumuk Aluminium Industries, to conclude his long-running criminal trial without further delays.
Her Worship Nantege, issued the directive during court proceedings in which Shukla allegedly defrauded Shahid Mahmood Alvi of UGX 220 million, after a prolonged absence that had raised concerns over his commitment to attend trial.
Shukla faces charges of obtaining more than UGX 220 million through false pretences and conspiracy to defraud.
He is jointly charged with his company, manager Judith Ayebare, and accountant Kadikar Dharamdip Anilkumar.
According to court documents, the allegations stem from claims that between November 2020 and November 2021, the accused fraudulently obtained approximately USD 27,950 and more than UGX 116 million from complainant Shahid Mahmood Alvi of Alvi Auto Village Ltd.
The money was allegedly secured by falsely claiming to lease or rent two plots of land in Banda Industrial Area and Nakawa Industrial Area.
During the hearing, court ordered Shukla’s arrest upon his appearance and detained him for about three hours before allowing the proceedings to continue.
The court also cancelled the previous sureties including, Shukla’s wife and son that had previously guaranteed Shukla’s attendance and ordered that fresh sureties be presented.
Her Worship Nantege reiterated the need to bring the matter to a close, fixing July 15th, as the final date for continuation of the hearing, directing that cross-examination must be completed on that day.
