Popular businessman and TikToker Isa Muwonge, commonly known as “Katwalo,” has suffered another setback in court after his application for bail was rejected, sending him back to Luzira Prison.
Muwonge returned to City Hall Court seeking temporary freedom as he battles charges of allegedly obtaining US$84,300 (about Shs319 million) by false pretence in a disputed gold export deal.
The businessman appeared before City Hall Senior Principal Magistrate Nicholas Aisu, who rejected his bail application after finding that the sureties presented by Muwonge were not substantial enough.
Muwonge, 49, had presented three sureties in an attempt to secure his release.
However, State Attorney Mariam Akite opposed the bail application, arguing that the proposed sureties had failed to demonstrate sufficient financial capacity to meet the obligations of the bail terms, particularly given the substantial amount of money involved in the case.
The court subsequently declined to grant bail and ordered Muwonge back to Luzira Prison.
The Shs319m gold deal
Prosecution alleges that on August 2, 2026, while at the offices of Max Metal Refinery Company in Bukoto, Kampala District, Muwonge, with intent to defraud, obtained US$84,300—approximately Shs319 million—from Muhamood Farouk Malida.
According to the prosecution, Muwonge allegedly promised to facilitate the export of seven kilogrammes of gold to Dubai on Farouk’s behalf.
The gold, however, was allegedly never exported, prompting the complainant to seek legal redress.
Muwonge denies the allegations.
The case previously came before court after prosecution told Magistrate Aisu that investigations were still ongoing, with the State indicating that inquiries would soon be completed.
The latest bail setback means the high-profile TikToker will remain behind bars as the criminal proceedings continue.
The prosecution will ultimately be required to prove its allegations in court, while Muwonge will have an opportunity to challenge the evidence against him.
Muwonge remains presumed innocent until proven guilty by a competent court.
