Major Enforcement Action Targets Unlicensed Operators
Uganda’s gambling regulator has intensified its fight against illegal gaming activities, executing a large-scale enforcement action that resulted in the destruction of hundreds of unauthorized machines. The National Lotteries and Gaming Regulatory Board (LGRB) carried out the operation following a court directive, underscoring the government’s commitment to restoring order and compliance within the country’s gaming sector.
Authorities revealed that the destroyed equipment had been seized from various unlicensed operators during coordinated inspections and raids. These operators were found to be running gambling activities outside the regulatory framework established by national law.
Breakdown of Confiscated Equipment
The regulator confirmed that more than 409 illegal gaming machines and components were eliminated during the exercise. The inventory included:
- Slot machines
- Fish table gaming devices
- Bags of spare parts and dismantled hardware
This range of equipment highlights the diversity of illegal gambling setups in the market, from standalone machines to hybrid electronic systems. By destroying both operational devices and replacement parts, the regulator aimed to prevent the reassembly and redistribution of illegal gaming infrastructure.
Collaboration Ensures Lawful Disposal
To execute the destruction process, the LGRB partnered with Luwero Industries Limited, a subsidiary of National Enterprise Corporation (NEC). The involvement of a state-linked industrial entity ensured that the dismantling and disposal of equipment complied with environmental, legal, and procedural standards.
Officials emphasized that the destruction was conducted transparently and under regulatory supervision, reinforcing public trust in the integrity of the enforcement process.
Seized Cash Remitted to the State
In addition to removing illegal hardware, the regulator also addressed financial proceeds recovered during seizures. All cash extracted from the confiscated machines was transferred to Uganda’s Consolidated Fund, in line with the court order and statutory requirements. This step ensures that revenues derived from unlawful activities are redirected to legitimate public use rather than benefiting illegal operators.
Protecting Consumers and Licensed Businesses
The LGRB stated that illegal gaming machines pose multiple risks, including consumer exploitation, tax leakage, and unfair competition for licensed operators. Unregulated devices often lack payout transparency, responsible gaming safeguards, and age-verification controls.
By eliminating illegal machines, authorities seek to:
- Protect players from fraudulent practices
- Safeguard government revenue streams
- Support compliant, licensed gaming operators
A Strong Signal to the Illegal Market
The destruction of over 409 machines sends a clear warning to unlicensed operators: regulatory violations will trigger decisive consequences. Uganda’s regulator continues to stress that sustainable industry growth depends on strict compliance, responsible gambling standards, and fair market participation.
The operation marks another step in Uganda’s broader campaign to professionalize and stabilize its gaming environment.
