crime 28 April 2026 The Observer (Uganda)
Immigration Raids Net 231 Foreign Nationals in Online Scam Bust
Uganda's Directorate of Citizenship and Immigration Control arrested 231 foreign nationals in Kampala and Adjumani over suspected illegal residence and online scams targeting job seekers. Operations uncovered scam operations and raised human trafficking concerns. Source: https://observer.ug/news/online-scams-231-foreign-nationals-arrested-in-immigration-crackdown
Uganda’s immigration authorities have detained over 231 foreign nationals in targeted raids this week, focusing on illegal activities including online fraud.
In Kampala, 169 suspects from countries like Pakistan, India, Bangladesh, and others were nabbed at a Bukoto property turned into a makeshift dormitory and scam office. The site featured computers and devices allegedly used for defrauding Ugandans with fake overseas job offers, aided by local accomplices.
Ministry of Internal Affairs spokesperson Simon Peter Mundeyi revealed the raids followed tips about undocumented foreigners scamming desperate job hunters. Many lacked passports or valid permits, with some claiming employers had seized their papers.
Separately, 62 Nigerians were arrested in Adjumani for running unauthorized church activities without work permits.
Among the 231 detainees—36 women and the rest men—some appear to be trafficking victims, while others face cybercrime charges. They are held at Jinja Road facility for screening.
Violators face prosecution, fines, and deportation, with serious cases handed to police. The public is urged to report suspicious activities as probes continue to catch fleeing masterminds.
Source: The Observer (Uganda)