By Diana N. Kintu
The Ministry of Internal Affairs has confirmed the arrest of 231 illegal migrants in two separate operations conducted in Kampala and Adjumani Districts.
According to the statement, the enforcement was carried out by the National Citizenship and Immigration Control (NCIC) as part of ongoing efforts to curb irregular migration.
Mr. Simon Peter Mundeyi, Ministry Spokesperson, said the operations were intelligence‑led and targeted individuals residing and operating without valid immigration documents.
In Adjumani District, enforcement teams apprehended 62 Nigerian nationals on April 27, 2026, who were found running activities, including the operation of a church, without valid work permits.
In a separate operation in Kampala’s Bukoto–Ntinda area, NCIC officers detained 169 foreign nationals residing in an apartment complex without a valid immigration status.
The group, which included 36 women, operated from a restricted facility with its own restaurant and internal amenities.
Upon searching the premises, officers recovered computers and IT equipment allegedly used to facilitate illegal gaming, betting, and organized scamming.
According to the statement, the suspects lacked identification documents, such as passports, and were nationals of Pakistan, India, Bangladesh, Ghana, Myanmar, Ethiopia, Sri Lanka, Cambodia, and Malaysia.
Mr. Mundeyi noted that all 231 individuals are undergoing rigorous screening and processing. Those found in violation of immigration laws will face prosecution, while cases involving suspected trafficking or criminal activity will be referred to relevant law enforcement agencies.
“Preliminary processing indicates varied circumstances among those arrested. Some individuals claimed they were trafficked into Uganda with promises of employment, others were engaged in cyber‑scamming, and a few were found with materials suggesting involvement in other criminal activities,” he said.
The Ministry emphasized that all immigrants engaged in business or employment in Kampala are required by law to possess valid documentation issued by the Directorate of Citizenship and Immigration Control. This includes work permits, visas, and residence permits where necessary.
According to the statement, Uganda’s permit system categorizes immigrants based on the nature of their work or investment, aligning foreign participation with national priorities. Failure to comply can result in fines, deportation, or closure of businesses.
The Ministry reaffirmed its commitment to enforcing immigration laws and protecting Uganda’s economy and security from irregular migration and associated criminal activities.