Uganda’s gaming regulator has stepped up enforcement against illegal gambling operations, overseeing the destruction of more than 400 confiscated gaming devices in a court-sanctioned exercise aimed at strengthening compliance within the sector.
The National Lotteries and Gaming Regulatory Board (LGRB) confirmed that from 12–13 February 2026 it implemented a court order authorising the disposal of 409 illegal gaming machines seized from unlicensed operators across the country.
The destroyed equipment comprised 160 slot machines, 112 fish tables and 137 sacks of assorted spare parts previously recovered during enforcement operations targeting unlawful gaming premises.
The destruction exercise was conducted at the facilities of Luwero Industries Limited, an industrial arm of the National Enterprise Corporation (NEC), under the supervision of regulatory and security officials in accordance with judicial directives.
Authorities also confirmed that cash recovered from the seized machines was formally remitted to the Consolidated Fund, in full compliance with the court’s orders and public finance regulations.
The regulator said the action underscores its ongoing mandate to enforce the Lotteries and Gaming Act, 2016, which requires all gaming activities in Uganda to be licensed, monitored and operated within strict regulatory standards designed to protect the public and preserve sector integrity.
Uganda’s gaming industry has expanded rapidly in recent years, driven by urbanisation, digital betting platforms and growing consumer demand for leisure gaming. While the sector contributes tax revenue and employment, regulators have repeatedly warned that illegal and unlicensed operations undermine consumer protection, enable financial crime risks and distort fair competition.
Enforcement officials note that confiscated slot machines and fish tables are commonly associated with informal gambling dens operating in trading centres and urban neighbourhoods without regulatory approval. Such premises often evade taxation, operate without responsible gaming safeguards and expose vulnerable groups, including minors, to unregulated gambling environments.
The destruction of seized equipment is a standard regulatory practice intended to prevent re-entry of illegal machines into circulation and to deter repeat offenders. It also signals to licensed operators that compliance obligations will be enforced consistently across the industry.
Under the Lotteries and Gaming Act, the Board is empowered to inspect premises, confiscate unlawful gaming devices, prosecute offenders and seek court orders for disposal of prohibited equipment. Convictions can attract fines, licence revocation or imprisonment, depending on the severity of violations.
Officials say the February operation forms part of a broader national compliance drive targeting illegal gaming networks, with further inspections and enforcement actions expected in the coming months as the regulator intensifies oversight of both physical and digital gambling platforms.
The Board reiterated that all gaming operators must obtain valid licences and adhere to approved technical standards, tax obligations and responsible gaming requirements. Members of the public have also been urged to report suspected illegal gaming activities to authorities.
By removing hundreds of unlawful machines from circulation, regulators say the latest enforcement action marks a significant step in safeguarding Uganda’s gaming sector from illegal operations while reinforcing the rule of law within the rapidly evolving industry.
