Nebbi District Crackdown: Illegal Gaming Manufacturer and Operator Arrested in Joint Raid

Nebbi, Uganda – In a decisive enforcement action, the Gulu regional team of the National Lotteries and Gaming Regulatory Board (NLGRB), in collaboration 9with the Uganda Police Force, has dismantled an illegal gaming manufacturing and operation ring in Nebbi District.

The operation, conducted in Makor Nyacara Ward, followed a tip-off from the vigilant local community. A search of the premises led to the arrest of a Chinese national, Zhou Juhua, who was found to be at the centre of the illicit operation.

Authorities seized a significant haul of gaming equipment, including 7 fish table gaming units, 26 electronic slot machines, 5 television screens, and a cache of over 120 motherboards alongside assorted gaming spare parts. This discovery points to a substantial unlicensed manufacturing and distribution hub.

NLGRB investigations uncovered that Zhou Juhua had been operating under the alias “Mr. Lin,” falsely presenting himself as a licensed manufacturer and supplier to the gaming sector. This deception allowed the illegal business to infiltrate the local market.

The NLGRB has commended the Makor community for their active role in whistleblowing, which was crucial to the operation’s success. The Board also expressed appreciation for the seamless collaboration with local authorities, notably the Regional Police Commander (RPC), Regional CID, District Police Commander (DPC), and the police officers in Nebbi.

“This enforcement action, under #OperationMashineHaramu, underscores our unwavering commitment to cleaning the gaming sector of illegal actors who evade regulation and oversight,” stated a spokesperson for the NLGRB. “We urge the public to remain vigilant and report suspicious gaming activities. Our goal is to ensure a fair, transparent, and #ResponsibleGamingUg environment for all.”

The suspect remains in custody as investigations continue. The NLGRB reiterates its warning that all gaming operators and manufacturers must be duly licensed and comply with the laws of Uganda.