Uganda seizes 170+ illegal gaming machines in 11 districts
Suppliers and manufacturers are also in scope, and making unlicensed machines available can bring fines or up to two years in prison.
Uganda.- Uganda’s National Lotteries and Gaming Regulatory Board (NLGRB) has confiscated more than 170 illegal gaming machines across 11 districts as part of its crackdown on unlicensed gambling operations.
The enforcement operation, conducted in collaboration with the Uganda Police Force, covered communities in Ibanda, Mbarara, Kabale, Masaka, Pallisa, Butebo, Namutumba, Apac, Nwoya, Oyam and Kole. The seizures were conducted under Operation Mashine Haramu, a campaign targeting illegal gaming machines and the operators, suppliers and manufacturers involved in unauthorised gaming activities.
The NLGRB credited regional police commanders, local leaders, whistleblowers, media organisations and community members for supporting the operations. It said their cooperation and tips helped enforcement teams locate and confiscate illegal machines across the affected districts.
The latest seizures follow an operation in September 2026, when the regulator confiscated more than 123 illegal gaming machines in the Greater Katonga region in collaboration with the police. Under Section 67(1) of Uganda’s Lotteries and Gaming Act, 2016, making gaming or betting machines available for use without a licence is an offence punishable by a fine of up to UGX960,000 (US$232), imprisonment for up to two years, or both.
The NLGRB urged the public to continue reporting suspected illegal gaming activities. It also encouraged consumers to verify operators’ authorisation through its published register of licensed gaming companies.
