Police, U.S. Embassy Warn Ugandans Against Imposters and Visa Fraud

Ugandans are increasingly facing a wave of conmen posing as intermediaries while impersonating officials from government agencies, ministries, non-governmental organisations, banks, telecom companies, and other institutions.

This was revealed by CP Kituuma Rusoke, the spokesperson of the Uganda Police Force, who noted that the fraudsters target individuals who are unfamiliar with official procedures, those in urgent situations, people seeking shortcuts, and others who are desperate for quick solutions.

While addressing journalists during the weekly press briefing at the Uganda Media Centre on Monday, Kituuma said that to appear credible, the criminals often use forged identity cards, fake introduction letters, unofficial phone numbers, and social media accounts. Once they receive money from victims, they either disappear or continue demanding additional payments, leaving victims embarrassed and reluctant to report the incidents.

Rusoke urged the public to always verify information before making any payments by contacting official hotlines, calling known office lines, visiting the nearest police station, or consulting trusted contacts.

He acknowledged that many victims feel embarrassed and fear being blamed, but encouraged them to report such cases.

“You are not a criminal. The person who abused your trust is,” he said, adding that public reports help investigators identify and apprehend imposters.

Rusoke noted that several fraud cases are already under investigation, some of which have been brought to the attention of the media.

Speaking at the same briefing, Mr. James Bloomer, the Senior Regional Security Officer at the United States Embassy in Kampala, cautioned Ugandans against using intermediaries when applying for visas.

Bloomer emphasised that the visa application process is strictly between the applicant and the embassy.

“You do not need to hire somebody to help you acquire a visa. In fact, many people offering such services may give you incorrect information,” he said.

He also warned applicants against submitting fraudulent documents during the visa application process. Presenting fake documents such as forged birth certificates or falsified academic qualifications can lead to immediate denial of a visa.

Bloomer revealed that since July 2025, 43 individuals have been arrested after attempting to use fraudulent documents to obtain visas to the United States.

“These individuals were stopped at the embassy and handed over to the Ugandan police for prosecution,” he said.

He further cautioned the public about scammers demanding payment for visa bonds before the visa interview process is completed.

Applicants are only informed about any visa bond requirements after the interview by the consular officer, he explained.

Bloomer also urged successful visa applicants to strictly observe the terms of their visas when travelling to the United States, including adhering to the permitted duration of stay.

“Once you receive a visa, it becomes an agreement between you and the United States government that you will follow the rules attached to that visa,” he said.

He reaffirmed the embassy’s commitment to working with Ugandans and encouraged travellers to follow proper procedures when applying for visas.