Uganda’s immigration enforcement team has arrested over 177 individuals suspected of illegal entry and stay within the country.
The operation which swept through Kabalagala, Kansanga and Muyenga, key suburbs known for their vibrant emigrant communities targeted individuals from Eritrea, Ethiopia, Somalia, South Sudan, Sudan, the Netherlands, the UK, Canada, and Sweden.
Authorities have confirmed that those apprehended are currently undergoing processing for prosecution marking one of the largest immigration arrests in Ugandan.
According to Uganda’s Directorate of Citizenship and Immigration Control (DCIC), intelligence led surveillance identified clusters of undocumented foreigners residing in these upscale and densely populated neighbourhoods.
The operation was carried out with precision involving multiple law enforcement agencies working in team to apprehend the suspects.
The arrested individuals reportedly failed to provide valid documentation including visas and work permits. Some are alleged to have overstayed their authorized period in the country while others are suspected of entering Uganda through unofficial border points.
The mass arrests have sparked debate among Ugandans and the international community. Government officials argue that the crackdown is necessary to maintain national security, prevent human trafficking and ensure legal immigration practices.
However, some claim the arrests could be an overreach, targeting individuals who may have genuine asylum claims or pending visa applications.
Some human rights groups have raised concerns about the conditions under which the detainees are being held calling for transparency in the prosecution process.
Uganda has long been praised for its relatively open door policy on refugees hosting over 1.5 million asylum seekers primarily from neighbouring war conflicted countries.
However, illegal immigration presents a different challenge. The government has been tightening its immigration policies in recent years introducing stringent measures to curb unlawful entries and overstays.
The DCIC has vowed to increase enforcement and vetting of foreigners in Uganda particularly those engaging in informal businesses or residing in the country without proper documentation.
The suspects are expected to face legal proceedings which may result in deportation, fines, or even imprisonment for those found guilty of immigration violations.
The government has indicated that due process will be followed but the speed at which these cases will be handled remains uncertain.
