Ugandan authorities have arrested 62 Nigerians for allegedly operating a church and engaging in other activities without valid work permits.

According to a statement by the Ugandan National Citizenship and Immigration Control, the arrests were carried out in Adjumani following a tip-off about illegal operations. Officials said the group was found conducting religious activities and residing in the country without proper documentation.

Uganda’s Ministry of Internal Affairs spokesperson, Simon Peter Mundeyi, stated that some of the individuals allegedly posed as gospel preachers while participating in other unlawful activities. He added that they are currently being held at the Namanve facility, where they are undergoing legal procedures.

Preliminary investigations suggest conflicting accounts among the detainees. While some claim they were deceived with false job offers, others are suspected of involvement in online fraud and related offenses. Authorities say the outcome could include prosecution, deportation, fines, or blacklisting.