Court Denies Bail to Former Byter Sales Manager Over Shs 294 Million Theft Allegations

Medi Mubiru, formerly a sales manager at Byter Agriculture Uganda Limited, will remain in custody after being denied bail by the Kampala Capital City Hall Magistrate’s court. Mubiru is facing charges related to the alleged theft of Shs 294.648 million in money and goods from the Chinese-owned company.

Senior Principal Magistrate Nicholas Aisu ruled against granting bail, stating that the three individuals proposed as sureties by Mubiru’s legal team failed to prove they possessed adequate financial means to cover the alleged stolen amount should Mubiru abscond. Mubiru, 47, was initially charged on September 11, 2026, and has pleaded not guilty.

The prosecution contends that between 2023 and 2026, Mubiru, in his capacity as sales manager and representative, misappropriated company assets. The case was initiated by Jin Bo, the company director, following the discovery of irregular financial transactions. Investigations reportedly uncovered banking records and electronic communications, including WhatsApp messages where Mubiru allegedly confessed.

During the bail hearing, the defense argued for Mubiru’s release, emphasizing his right to bail and challenging the prosecution’s claims, including the alleged murder of a potential witness. However, the magistrate ultimately sided with the prosecution’s concerns regarding the sureties’ financial standing and the substantial nature of the alleged loss, concluding that they were not substantial enough to guarantee Mubiru’s appearance for trial.

Mubiru was subsequently remanded to Luzira Prison, and the case has been adjourned to October 20, 2026, for hearing.

Source: https://observer.ug/news/shs-294m-theft-court-denies-byter-sales-manager-mubiru-bail