Efforts to combat the rise in mineral-related fraud, particularly in the gold trade, have intensified, with 56 suspects arrested and 50 cases registered since February 2025, according to officials from the Ministry of Energy and Mineral Development and the Uganda Police Force.

Speaking during a joint media briefing at Police headquarters in Naguru, David Ssebaggala, Senior Inspector of Mines in the Ministry’s Department of Mines, and Assistant Commissioner of Police Julius Caesar Tusingwire, Commandant of the Police Minerals Protection Unit (PMPU), outlined the growing threat of gold-related scams in the country.

ACP Tusingwire noted that the global surge in gold prices from USD 79,000 to as high as USD 120,000 per kilogram over the past year has drawn both genuine investors and criminal elements into Uganda’s mineral sector.

He revealed that fraudsters have adopted increasingly sophisticated tactics, such as using fake gold coated with mud, ginger, and low-grade metals; packaging counterfeit consignments in tamper-proof boxes; and setting up shop in rented apartments posing as offices or refineries.

Since the start of a national crackdown earlier this year, police have dismantled 15 illegal operations in areas including Muyenga, Buziga, and Lugogo.

The raids led to the seizure of counterfeit gold, safes, gas cylinders, and testing equipment commonly used in gold scams.

Although fraud cases briefly declined following the initial enforcement wave, authorities say there has been resurgence.

In response, another round of operations is scheduled to begin next month.

David Ssebaggala stressed the need for stricter oversight in the mineral trade.

He reiterated that legitimate transactions must involve agencies like the Uganda Revenue Authority (URA), the Police Minerals Protection Unit (PMPU), and licensed financial institutions.

He further cautioned that some fraudsters may possess valid licenses, urging potential investors to exercise due diligence before engaging in any mineral deals.

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