Uganda casino blocks alleged US$17,000 baccarat fraud attempt
Playing cards and electronic devices were reportedly recovered during an investigation into suspected cheating at a Kampala casino.
Key takeaways:
- Pujing Casino in Kampala reportedly stopped a Shs63.5m (US$17,000) pay-out after detecting suspected cheating during a baccarat game.
- Two Chinese nationals, Liu Min and Li Wenshuang appeared before Buganda road chief Magistrate’s Court on October 29, 2026.
- Investigators recovered four cards associated with Pujing Casino, two linked to Meline Casino and two electronic devices allegedly linked to the suspected scheme.
- The accused were remanded to Luzira Prison until November 6, 2026 for plea-taking and further proceedings.
Uganda.- Uganda’s Pujing Casino in Kampala reportedly halted a Shs63.5m (US$17,000) pay-out after two Chinese nationals were suspected of using fraudulent techniques and electronic devices during a baccarat game. The case centres on alleged cheating involving casino cards and equipment, with the prosecution seeking to proceed after investigations were completed.
Liu Min, 36, and Li Wenshuang, 40, appeared before Buganda road chief Magistrate’s Court on 29 October, facing charges of cheating and forging tickets following their arrest at Pujing Casino, located at the Imperial Royale Hotel in Kampala, according to New Vision.
According to the charge sheet, the alleged offences took place on October 25, 2026. The prosecution alleges that the two men each purchased casino chips worth Shs10m (US$2,700), bringing their combined stake to Shs20m (US$5,400), before allegedly using fraudulent techniques to obtain winnings while playing baccarat.
The casino’s surveillance team reportedly detected suspicious activity and alerted cashiers, prompting the casino to halt payment before the alleged winnings were paid out.
A subsequent security search uncovered four playing cards associated with Pujing Casino, two cards reportedly linked to Meline Casino and two electronic devices allegedly linked to the suspected scheme. The items were seized and handed over to police as part of the investigation.
The prosecution alleges that the accused used fraudulent techniques and equipment to obtain money from the casino. The two face charges of cheating under Section 287 of Uganda’s Penal Code Act and forging tickets under Section 66(a) and (c) of the Lotteries and Gaming Act.
Chief state Attorney Joan Keko told the court that the case was not an isolated incident, saying prosecutors had recently handled another case involving a Chinese national. “This week, we have charged another Chinese national, and in all these cases, the complainants are Chinese,” Keko told the court.
Keko warned that alleged fraudulent schemes targeting fellow Chinese investors could undermine trust and discourage investment in Uganda. The prosecution told the court that investigations into the case were complete and requested that the matter proceed.
The charges could not be read to the accused because a Chinese-language interpreter was required. Chief magistrate Ritah Neumbe Kidasa remanded them to Luzira Prison until November 6, when they are expected to return for plea-taking and further proceedings.
The accused have not yet entered pleas and the case is scheduled to return to Buganda Road Chief Magistrate’s Court on November 6, 2026.
Frequently asked questions (FAQs)
- Where is Pujing Casino located? Pujing Casino is located at the Imperial Royale Hotel in Kampala, Uganda.
- How much was involved in the alleged casino fraud? The police brief cites Shs63.5m (US$17,000).
- What items were reportedly recovered? Investigators reportedly recovered six playing cards associated with two casinos and two electronic devices allegedly linked to the suspected scheme.
- When will the accused return to court? Liu Min and Li Wenshuang are scheduled to return to Buganda Road Chief Magistrate’s Court on November 6, 2026.
