The Uganda Police Force has taken Annet Tusuubira, proprietor of Tubale Safari, to court over allegations of defrauding foreign tourists of more than $39,000 through fake safari bookings.
Police spokesperson Kituuma Rusoke said Tusuubira was arrested on October 30 by officers from Jinja Central Police Station following complaints from foreign tourists who allegedly paid for safari packages but never received the promised services.
According to Rusoke, the suspect allegedly obtained $12,000 from one foreign tourist in July, $8,400 from a British tourist later that month, $12,966 from an American couple in August and another $6,228 in October.
The alleged transactions bring the total amount involved to $39,594.
Police further revealed that the Uganda Tourism Board reportedly withdrew Tubale Safari’s operating licence on July 21, 2026, but the company allegedly continued receiving bookings and payments from unsuspecting tourists.
The case has raised concerns about the need for travellers to verify the legitimacy of tourism operators before committing money to safari packages and other travel services.
Police have urged other tourists who may have been affected by the alleged fraud to report to their nearest police stations to assist with investigations.
Rusoke also cautioned travellers against making payments to tour operators without first confirming that they hold valid operating licences.
Investigations into the alleged fraud are ongoing.
END