Uganda’s Ministry of Internal Affairs has confirmed the arrest of 231 foreign nationals in two intelligence-led operations targeting irregular migration and unlawful activities, including cyber scamming, illegal gaming and betting, following raids in Adjumani District and Kampala.

In Adjumani District on April 27, 2026, enforcement teams arrested 62 Nigerian nationals who were found operating without valid work permits. Authorities stated that the group was engaged in unauthorized activities, including the operation of a church, in violation of Uganda’s immigration and labor laws.

Hours later, a second and larger operation was carried out overnight in the Bukoto–Ntinda area of Kampala, where 169 foreign nationals were detained inside a highly controlled apartment complex. The group included 36 women and individuals from Pakistan, India, Bangladesh, Ghana, Myanmar, Ethiopia, Sri Lanka, Cambodia, Thailand, Nepal, Indonesia and Malaysia.

According to the official statement, the apartment facility was deliberately structured as a restricted, self-contained environment with internal services such as a restaurant, designed to limit movement and maintain total operational control. Authorities say the setup enabled coordinated illegal activities to take place within the premises.

During the search, officers recovered a significant number of computers and IT equipment allegedly used to run illegal online operations. These included cyber scamming schemes, unauthorized gaming platforms, and betting activities targeting victims through digital channels. Investigators also noted that none of the suspects had identification documents, including passports, raising serious concerns about illegal entry and stay in Uganda.

Preliminary screening has revealed that the group was not uniform in its circumstances. Some individuals claimed they were trafficked into Uganda after being promised legitimate employment opportunities, only to be forced into illegal online work. Others are believed to have knowingly participated in organized cybercrime operations. A number of suspects were also found with materials suggesting involvement in additional criminal activities, which authorities have not yet fully disclosed.

All 231 individuals are currently undergoing detailed screening and verification processes. Officials confirmed that those found in violation of immigration laws will be prosecuted, while cases involving suspected trafficking, or criminal activity will be refered to relevant law enforcement agencies for further investigation.

The Ministry emphasized that the operations form part of a broader national effort to combat irregular migration and dismantle transnational criminal networks exploiting Uganda as a base for illicit activities. Authorities reiterated that all foreign nationals must be properly documented and compliant with Ugandan law.

The government has also called on the public to report suspicious activity, signaling continued enforcement actions as security agencies intensify efforts to crack down on illegal operations linked to cybercrime and trafficking.

This operation marks a decisive step by Ugandan authorities to address the intersection of irregular migration and cyber-enabled crime, signaling increased enforcement and scrutiny in the months ahead.