The Directorate of Citizenship and Immigration Control (DCIC) has intensified operations targeting irregular migrants across Kampala and surrounding areas, arresting more than 200 foreign nationals between August and December 2025.
In the most recent operation conducted this week at the Ntinda Industrial Area, immigration enforcement teams apprehended 27 irregular migrants from China, India, Pakistan, the Philippines, and Sri Lanka. Another 32 foreign nationals were found to be compliant with immigration requirements.
“We continue to urge all foreign nationals to ensure their stay is legal by applying online,” DCIC stated on X (formerly Twitter), directing applicants to the official immigration portal.
The Ntinda arrests follow a string of similar crackdowns in Kampala:
November 13, 2025 (Luzira): Immigration officers arrested 17 irregular immigrants, including Chinese, Indians, Pakistanis and Filipinos. More than 50 foreign nationals were verified as compliant.
October 30, 2025 (Kafumbe Mukasa Road): 22 foreign nationals—among them Chinese, Indians, Somalis, and Egyptians—were taken into custody for working without valid permits. DCIC said all arrested individuals “will be prosecuted.”
October 23, 2025 (China Town, Industrial Area): Enforcement teams apprehended 47 irregular immigrants from China, India, Pakistan, and Syria. Another 30+ individuals were confirmed to have valid documentation.
October 14, 2025 (Car bonds, Nakawa): 10 Pakistani nationals were arrested for irregular stay and are being prepared for prosecution. Twenty others were cleared.
August 14, 2025 (Mengo, Bulange & Kabusu): One of the year’s largest operations led to the arrest of 85 irregular immigrants from Ethiopia, Congo, Somalia, and Eritrea.
DCIC emphasised that many of the arrested individuals were found working illegally, operating businesses without permits, or residing in Uganda without a valid immigration status.
Foreign nationals have been repeatedly reminded to legalise their stay by applying for the appropriate residence facilities, including work permits, through the official online platform: visas.immigration.go.ug.
The Directorate says enforcement will continue, stressing that compliance protects both migrants and national security.
