Uganda Police have arrested a man identified as Faisal Kimuli, who is suspected of operating an online tourism fraud scheme that allegedly targeted foreign tourists seeking car hire, safaris and gorilla trekking services.

According to the Uganda Police Force, Kimuli was arrested on October 2, 2026, following investigations launched after complaints from tourists who allegedly lost money to an online business operating as FK Car Rental.

The investigation was triggered by a complaint filed by a Russian tourist with the Uganda Tourism Board (UTB) on August 16. Police said the tourist had paid US$2,215 to FK Car Rental to hire a vehicle, but the vehicle was never provided.

Shortly after the payment was made, the website associated with the business reportedly went offline, while the telephone numbers used to communicate with customers were switched off.

Police said subsequent complaints from other foreign tourists pointed to a similar pattern.

Investigators allege that the same operator was behind several online platforms promoting tourism services, including gorilla permits, safari packages and 4x4 vehicle rentals.

According to police, the platforms were designed to appear legitimate and used professionally produced advertisements and photographs featuring genuine tourists.

The suspect allegedly operated using several identities, including “Becky,” “Kim Quinn” and “Habimana Samuel.”

Police further allege that the services were advertised at prices substantially lower than the prevailing market rates, attracting tourists looking for cheaper travel and wildlife experiences in Uganda.

Investigators say communication with potential customers was largely conducted through WhatsApp, with tourists allegedly instructed to make advance payments through mobile money or bank transfers.

Police allege that after receiving payments, the operator would sometimes claim to be outside Uganda and then become unreachable.

Investigators also say the suspect repeatedly changed telephone numbers, mobile devices, accounts and websites, allegedly in an effort to avoid detection.

Following the arrest, police said investigations remain ongoing to establish the full extent of the alleged fraud.

Authorities are also working to identify other possible victims and accomplices and trace money allegedly obtained through the scheme.

Police have urged anyone who believes they paid money to accounts or telephone numbers linked to the suspect, or who may have experienced a similar tourism scam, to report the matter to Katwe Police Station or the nearest police station.

Police have also urged tourists and members of the public to exercise caution when booking tourism services online.

The warning is particularly relevant to visitors seeking gorilla trekking permits. The Uganda Wildlife Authority (UWA) states that foreign non-resident gorilla and chimpanzee tracking permits are purchased through tour operators licensed by the Uganda Tourism Board. UWA also advises the public to verify tour operators before making payments.

The Uganda Tourism Board maintains a directory of licensed tour companies that can be used to check whether a tourism operator is licensed.