Amanze Chinonye
Ugandan authorities have arrested more than 200 foreign nationals in a coordinated crackdown targeting illegal immigrants and undocumented business operators, as investigations widen into suspected cybercrime and human trafficking networks.
The operations, confirmed by the Uganda Ministry of Internal Affairs, were carried out in the capital, Kampala, and parts of northern Uganda, including Adjumani District.
According to officials, at least 231 individuals were detained during the raids, with the largest operation conducted in the upscale Bukoto area of Kampala. Security operatives stormed a residential apartment complex where 169 suspects, including dozens of women, were found living without valid immigration documents.
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Spokesperson for the ministry, Simon Peter Mundeyi, said the exercise was intelligence-led and targeted foreign nationals involved in visa violations, illegal work permits, and unlawful business activities.
Authorities said the Bukoto residence functioned as a tightly controlled, self-contained compound, raising suspicions of organised criminal activity. During the raid, security agents recovered computers and other digital equipment believed to have been used for online scams, illegal betting, and gaming operations.
A separate operation in Adjumani led to the arrest of dozens more suspects, including a significant number of West African nationals.
Preliminary investigations indicate that those detained are from multiple countries across Africa and Asia, including Nigeria, Ghana, India, Pakistan, Bangladesh, Ethiopia, and Myanmar. Officials said many of the suspects were unable to present valid passports or identification documents, with some claiming their documents had been confiscated by their employers.
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Authorities further revealed that the detainees fall into three broad categories: suspected victims of human trafficking, individuals allegedly involved in cybercrime and related offences, and immigration violators who overstayed their visas.
Some of those arrested reportedly told investigators they were lured to Uganda under false pretences, including promises of legitimate employment.
The government said all detainees are currently undergoing screening to determine their status. While suspected trafficking victims and immigration offenders may be repatriated, individuals found culpable of criminal activity will face prosecution under Ugandan law, in addition to possible deportation.
Officials emphasised that the crackdown forms part of broader efforts to enforce immigration regulations, curb transnational crime, and ensure that all foreign nationals operating within Uganda comply with legal requirements.
Amanze Chinonye is a Staff Correspondent at Prime Business Africa, a rising star in the literary world, weaving captivating stories that transport readers to the vibrant landscapes of Nigeria and the rest of Africa. With a unique voice that blends with the newspaper's tradition and style, Chinonye's writing is a masterful exploration of the human condition, delving into themes of identity, culture, and social justice. Through her words, Chinonye paints vivid portraits of everyday African life, from the bustling markets of Nigeria's Lagos to the quiet villages of South Africa's countryside . With a keen eye for detail and a deep understanding of the complexities of Nigerian society, Chinonye's writing is both a testament to the country's rich cultural heritage and a powerful call to action for a brighter future. As a writer, Chinonye is a true storyteller, using her dexterity to educate, inspire, and uplift readers around the world.
