Over 700 Foreign Nationals Arrested in Wakiso Over Suspected Cybercrime Operation

Wakiso, Uganda, July 10, 2026 - More than 700 foreign nationals, mainly Chinese citizens, have been arrested during a major security operation targeting suspected cybercrime activities, illegal call centres, and immigration violations in Garuga, Katabi Town Council, Wakiso District. The operation, conducted by the Criminal Investigations Directorate (CID) and other security agencies, targeted Katomi Country Resort and Garuga Country Resort, where investigators believe the suspects had been residing and allegedly operating. Security officials said many of the foreign nationals had reportedly stayed at the two facilities for several months before the raid. Investigators are also examining whether some of those arrested were living or working in Uganda without valid immigration documents. During the operation, authorities recovered numerous travel documents, including passports from China, Vietnam, Cambodia, and other countries. Security teams also seized hundreds of electronic devices, including desktop computers, laptops, mobile phones, servers, storage equipment, and networking tools for forensic examination. Preliminary investigations indicate that the facilities may have been used as bases for cyber-enabled fraud, illegal call centre operations, and other digital crimes targeting victims in Uganda and abroad. Authorities are investigating whether the suspected network was involved in large-scale online scams and other forms of organised cybercrime. The operation is among the largest coordinated actions against suspected cybercrime networks in Uganda in recent years. The suspects are undergoing screening by investigators, immigration officials, and relevant agencies as forensic teams analyse the recovered electronic equipment. Individuals found to have violated immigration or criminal laws are expected to face prosecution. Authorities said further details will be released as investigations continue and the scope of the alleged criminal activities is established.