Twenty-four foreign nationals are in police custody in Busia District following their arrest during a joint operation targeting illegal gold mining and mineral smuggling in the Bukedi sub-region. The operation, code-named “Operation Zaabu,” is being conducted by the Ministry of Energy and Mineral Development’s Mines Department together with the Police Minerals Protection Unit (PMPU).
The crackdown is aimed at curbing illegal mining, smuggling of minerals, and illicit mineral trade across the country. The enforcement team is led by Agnes Alaba, the Commissioner of Mines and Coordinator of the Mineral Development Sub-Programme, alongside Assistant Commissioner of Police Julius Ceaser Tusingwire, who also commands the Police Minerals Protection Unit.
Authorities say the operation, which previously covered Kigezi, Ankole, and Central Buganda, has now shifted focus to the mineral-rich Bukedi sub-region, particularly Busia District. During the ongoing operation in Tiira Town Council, security personnel arrested 24 foreign nationals, including Chinese, Zambian, and Tanzanian suspects, over alleged illegal gold mining activities.
Officials say the suspects are accused of operating without valid mining licences and illegally entering the country. Two mining sites linked to Meilin Mines Limited under Tiira Landlords and Artisanal Miners Association were also closed for allegedly failing to provide proper mining documentation and for illegally employing foreign nationals. Agnes Alaba said the operation is intended to ensure that all mining activities are conducted legally and in accordance with government regulations.
Alaba also expressed concern over environmental degradation caused by illegal artisanal mining, warning that such activities pose serious risks to nearby communities.
Thomas Madiru, one of the directors of Tiira Landlords Mining Group, admitted that some of the concerns raised by the ministry officials were valid. He explained that the group possesses some mining documents and was still processing a formal mining licence.
Assistant Commissioner of Police Julius Ceaser Tusingwire said investigations indicate that several of the foreign nationals entered Uganda illegally before engaging in mining activities without proper authorization.
Tusingwire said the suspects are expected to face several charges, including illegal entry into the country, illegal mining, and obtaining money by false pretence. He added that individuals found with valid exploration licences will be allowed to explain their operations during investigations.
