Security have intensified a nationwide crackdown on irregular migration, arresting more than 200 foreign nationals in coordinated operations targeting cybercrime and human trafficking networks.
In a statement issued Tuesday, the Ministry of Internal Affairs said enforcement teams from the National Citizenship and Immigration Control (NCIC) carried out two major intelligence-led operations in Adjumani District and Kampala, netting a total of 231 suspects.
The first operation, conducted on April 27 in Adjumani District, saw 62 Nigerian nationals arrested for allegedly operating without valid work permits. Authorities said the group was engaged in various activities, including running a church.
Hours later, a night raid in the Bukoto-Ntinda area of Kampala uncovered a larger and more complex operation. Immigration officers arrested 169 foreign nationals who were reportedly living in a tightly controlled apartment complex without valid immigration status.
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The ministry said the premises had been modified into a self-contained hub with restricted movement, complete with internal facilities such as a restaurant.
A search of the building led to the recovery of numerous computers and other IT equipment believed to have been used in illegal gaming, betting and organised online scams.
The suspects include nationals from Pakistan, India, Bangladesh, Ghana, Myanmar, Ethiopia, Sri Lanka, Cambodia, Thailand, Nepal, Indonesia and Malaysia. Authorities noted that many of those arrested did not have identification documents, including passports.
Preliminary investigations have revealed mixed accounts among the detainees, with some claiming they were trafficked into Uganda under false promises of employment, while others are suspected to have been directly involved in cybercrime activities.
"All 231 individuals arrested across these two operations are currently undergoing rigorous screening and processing. Those found in violation of Ugandan immigration laws will face prosecution in accordance with the Country's Laws. Cases involving suspected trafficking or criminal activity will be referred to the appropriate law enforcement agencies for further investigation," said Ministry spokesperson Mr Simon Peter Mundeyi.
He added: "The Ministry of Internal Affairs and the NCIC remain committed to ensuring that all foreign nationals residing or working within our borders are fully documented and compliant with national regulations. We urge the public to continue supporting these efforts by reporting suspicious activities to the nearest immigration office or police station."
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The ministry says the operations are part of a broader effort to safeguard national security and enforce compliance with immigration laws, amid growing concern over transnational crime networks operating within the region.
