MUHANGA - Police in Nyamabuye has arrested a Ugandan national over counterfeit currency.

Vian Ashaba, 30, was arrested last Sunday morning after a tip-off from one of his associates - Dan Kevin Kanani, an Agespro security guard in Kigali - whom he had allegedly swindled money amounting to  Rwf500, 000 with a promise to double the amount.

He was found in possession of Rwf1,545,000 counterfeit money in denominations of Rwf5000 notes.

Police recovered from the accused tools of his illicit trade which included chemicals and arrested three other suspects in connection with the crime.

Ashaba, a resident of Kabale district, Uganda was arrested at Kabgayi, where he hoped to start his money making project, that is allegedly sponsored one businessman identified as Emmanuel Nzabonimana.

Prior to the arrest, a serious dispute had ensued amongst the trio which led to a bitter fall-out that ultimately precipitated the arrest.

The accused has, however, denied the allegations, saying he is only a middleman who works for another Ugandan based in Kampala.

"I am not the one behind the money making project. If I am released, I can lead you to the person behind this project,” Ashaba told Police.

Ashaba’s accomplices, Kanani and Nzabonimana also denied any involvement in the crime.

Police said investigations  showed to yield more suspects involved in the illegal activity. They could be jailed between three months and five years  if found guilty.

Ends