WAKISO, Uganda — Authorities in Wakiso District have arrested a Nigerian national accused of operating an unlicensed mental health facility without the required professional qualifications and regulatory approvals.
The suspect was apprehended during a joint operation by health and security authorities following allegations that the facility had been providing mental health services despite lacking authorization from the relevant government agencies.
According to investigators, preliminary findings indicate that the suspect did not possess the necessary credentials to offer psychiatric or mental health treatment and had allegedly been running the facility without valid operating permits.
During the operation, authorities reportedly recovered a quantity of government-supplied medicines worth millions of shillings. The drugs are suspected to have been illegally obtained and diverted from public health facilities, although investigations are still ongoing to establish their source and intended use.
Officials said the recovery has raised concerns about the management of medicines and the potential risks posed to patients receiving treatment at unregulated facilities.
Health authorities emphasized that mental health services can only be provided by qualified professionals operating in licensed and inspected facilities. They warned that unauthorized centers expose vulnerable patients to possible abuse, improper treatment and serious health complications.
The arrest comes amid ongoing efforts by regulators to crack down on illegal health facilities and unqualified practitioners across Uganda. In recent months, authorities have intensified inspections in Wakiso District, leading to the closure of several health facilities found operating with fake licenses or unqualified personnel.
Officials said the suspect remains in custody as investigations continue. Authorities are also examining whether additional individuals may have been involved in the operation of the facility or the suspected diversion of government medicines.
Police and health regulators have urged members of the public to verify the licensing status of health facilities before seeking treatment and to report any suspected illegal medical operations to the relevant authorities.
If convicted, the suspect could face charges related to operating an unauthorized health facility, impersonation of a medical professional, unlawful possession of government medicines and other offenses under Uganda’s health laws.
Investigations are ongoing.