Uganda regulator uncovers illegal gaming equipment workshop in Kibuku
The operation forms part of Uganda’s Mashine Haramu campaign targeting unlicensed gaming activities and illegal gaming machines.
Uganda.- Uganda’s National Lotteries and Gaming Regulatory Board (NLGRB) has uncovered a suspected gaming equipment manufacturing workshop during an enforcement operation targeting illegal gaming businesses in Kibuku.
The operation began with intelligence on four gaming outlets in Kibuku Town that the regulator identified as operating illegally. The outlets were linked to Chinese national Liang Zhang Chen, according to the NLGRB.
The investigation widened after a tip from an informant directed officers to Zhang Chen’s residence in Pallisa. A search of the property revealed a workshop that investigators said was being used to manufacture gaming equipment. The finding expanded the operation beyond the four illegal gaming outlets and raised questions about the wider supply of equipment to unlicensed gaming businesses.
However, the NLGRB has not disclosed what equipment was found, how much was recovered or whether the workshop supplied the four outlets or other gaming operators. It has also not said whether Zhang Chen was arrested or whether charges have been filed in connection with the operation.
The enforcement action involved police officers from the Bukedi region, including the Regional Police Commander, the Regional Criminal Investigations Department officer and officers from Kibuku District. The regulator thanked the officers for their assistance during the operation.
Praising the informant whose tip helped investigators locate the Pallisa residence, the NLGRB urged the public to report suspicious gaming activities and provide information that could help identify illegal operations.
The discovery comes as Uganda’s gaming regulator continues enforcement against operators conducting gaming activities without the required licences under its Operation “Mashine Haramu” campaign. In May 2026, the regulator reported seizing 169 illegal gaming machines in a West Nile operation covering several locations including Arua, Maracha, Koboko, Nebbi and Pakwach.
