NLGRB seizes unfinished slot machines in Kitintale enforcement raid
Many of these machines enter Uganda disguised as ordinary computer components and are later assembled in local workshops.
Uganda.- The National Lotteries and Gaming Regulatory Board (NLGRB) has conducted a raid on an illegal gaming workshop in Kitintale as part of its ongoing efforts to curb unlicensed gambling activities across the region.
The operation led to the seizure of seven unfinished slot machines, several unfinished fish tables, 14 sacks of assorted spare parts and 235 motherboards. In a statement issued on February 19, the NLGRB said the premises belonged to an individual who had previously faced charges for possession of illegal gaming equipment and remains at large.
The raid is linked to Operation Mashine Haramu (also known as Operation Machine Haramu), a nationwide effort launched in September 2025 to stop the production, supply and use of unlicensed gambling devices. Since the operation began, the NLGRB, often working with the Uganda Police Force, has impounded more than 6,000 illegal gaming machines across several districts, including Jinja, Masaka, Mpigi, Ibanda and Soroti. Many of these machines enter Uganda disguised as ordinary computer components and are later assembled in local workshops.
In its Tuesday release, the regulator said it will continue the enforcement drive to support licensed operators and ensure gaming activities remain within the law, stating: “NLGRB remains committed to protecting the integrity of Uganda’s gaming industry and safeguarding the public from unlicensed gambling operations.”
