KAMPALA UGANDA : 28 April 2026— The National Citizenship and Immigration Control (NCIC) has intensified its operations against irregular migration, resulting in the arrest of 231 foreign nationals during two major enforcement actions across the country.
The operations, part of a nationwide commitment to national security, targeted individuals living and working in Uganda without valid documentation and those suspected of engaging in illicit activities.
In a high-profile, intelligence-led operation on the night of April 27/28, 2026, NCIC officers raided a restricted apartment complex in the Bukoto-Ntinda area of Kampala. Officials detained 169 foreign nationals, including 36 women, who were residing there without valid immigration status.
According to the NCIC public statement, the complex was a self-contained facility featuring its own restaurant and amenities, designed to restrict the movement of occupants and ensure “total focus on illicit operations.” During the search, officers recovered: A significant cache of computers and IT equipment, Evidence of illegal gaming and betting operations, and Materials used to facilitate organized cyber-scamming.
The suspects, many of whom lacked any form of identification or passports, represent a wide range of nationalities, including citizens from Pakistan, India, Bangladesh, Ghana, Myanmar, Ethiopia, Sri Lanka, Cambodia, Thailand, Nepal, Indonesia, and Malaysia.
Earlier, on April 27, enforcement teams apprehended 62 Nigerian nationals in the Adjumani District. Investigations revealed the group was operating illegally without valid work permits. Their activities reportedly included the unauthorized operation of a church.
Preliminary processing has revealed a complex situation among the detainees. While many were actively engaged in cyber-scamming, others have claimed they were trafficked into Uganda under the false promise of legitimate employment.
”All 231 individuals arrested across these two operations are currently undergoing rigorous screening and processing,” stated Mundeyi Simon Peter, Spokesperson for the Ministry of Internal Affairs. “Those found in violation of Ugandan immigration laws will face prosecution. Cases involving suspected trafficking will be referred to the appropriate law enforcement agencies.”
Public Advisory
The Ministry of Internal Affairs has reaffirmed its commitment to ensuring all foreign nationals within Uganda’s borders are fully documented. The public is urged to report suspicious activities to the nearest immigration office or police station.
Contact Information for Inquiries:
- Email: info@immigration.go.ug
- X (Twitter): @mia_uga / @DCICUg
- Phone: +256417102600