Ugandan authorities have detained 62 Nigerian nationals over alleged illegal church operations and immigration violations, following an enforcement operation in Adjumani.

Arrest over alleged illegal activities

The Ugandan National Citizenship and Immigration Control (NCIC) confirmed the development in a statement on Wednesday, stating that the arrests were made after a tip-off.

“Following a tip-off, our enforcement team has arrested 62 Nigerian nationals operating illegally in Adjumani (without work permits),” the agency said.

According to the statement, the group was primarily found operating a church alongside other activities without the required legal authorisation.

Authorities cite immigration violations

Simon Peter Mundeyi, spokesperson for Uganda’s Ministry of Internal Affairs, said the individuals are currently being held at the Namanve facility.

He noted that they are undergoing legal processes that may lead to deportation, fines, or possible blacklisting.

“They often pose as gospel preachers while engaging in other irregular activities. Acting on intelligence, we moved in and apprehended them,” he said.

Conflicting accounts from suspects

Mundeyi disclosed that preliminary investigations have revealed varying accounts from those detained.

While some claimed they were lured into Uganda with promises of jobs, others are being investigated over suspected involvement in online fraud and related offences.

The development has raised concerns around migration, religious activities, and cross-border enforcement as authorities continue their probe.