Uganda seizes dozens of illegal gaming machines in Jinja raids
The crackdown stems from growing concerns over the proliferation of illicit gambling, which authorities say undermines regulatory frameworks and exposes vulnerable populations.
Uganda.- Ugandan authorities have launched a sweeping enforcement operation against illegal gaming operations in Jinja City, seizing dozens of unlicensed gaming machines and disrupting networks involved in their distribution.
The operation, dubbed Operation ‘Mashine Haramu’, interpreted as ‘illegal machines’ in Swahili, is led by the National Lotteries and Gaming Regulatory Board (NLGRB) in partnership with the Uganda Police Force. It was introduced to enforce the Lotteries and Gaming Act, Cap. 334, which mandates licensing for all betting and gaming equipment.
On September 10, 2025, law enforcement raided hotspots such as Bugembe, Mafubira and nearby trading centres, where they impounded over 50 machines. The action is part of a broader campaign across the country, which has seen similar raids in Masaka City and Mpigi District and resulted in multiple arrests and the confiscation of more machines. For instance, in Masaka, police apprehended two individuals named Sali Godfrey and Mwesigwa Patricia for operating and transporting illegal slot machines and fish tables.
Stephen Tabaruka Bakironda, NLGRB’s Manager of Operations, emphasised the campaign’s dual goals of equipment seizure and network disruption during the Jinja raids. He said: “We have pitched camp in Eastern Uganda to deal with individuals and businesses operating without licences. Our mandate is to protect the public from illegal gaming activities that exploit unsuspecting citizens, and this operation will spread to other districts.”
Bakironda further highlighted the risks posed by untested machines, saying: “All machines that are not known to the National Lotteries and Gaming Regulatory Board are being confiscated because they are not tested or approved for gaming. We encourage members of the public to report such illegal machines and urge operators to seek proper authorisation from the Board.”
The crackdown stems from growing concerns over the proliferation of illicit gambling, which authorities say undermines regulatory frameworks and exposes vulnerable populations, particularly youth, to addiction and financial exploitation. NLGRB statistics reveal that more than 6,000 illegal machines have been seized nationwide in the past year, reflecting a persistent challenge in maintaining industry integrity. Investigations are ongoing to trace smuggling routes, with Bakironda warning that those involved “will be apprehended and prosecuted in line with the law”.
Beyond immediate enforcement, Operation ‘Mashine Haramu’ carries significant implications for Uganda’s gaming sector and public welfare. By targeting unlicensed operations, the initiative seeks to safeguard tax revenues, which are potentially lost to underground activities, and promote responsible gaming practices.
