The immigration enforcement team operating in Busia has arrested 14 individuals for being irregular immigrants, as they were residing and working in the country without the required immigration documentation.
The detainees arrested on September 17, 2024, include citizens from India, Pakistan, Lebanon, and Nigeria.
Simon Peter Mundeyi, the Internal Affair Ministry spokesperson, indicated that some of those apprehended were working without the necessary work permits, while others had entry visas that had expired.
“Some of these were given visas for three months but have been living and working here for years. We have even got some who have lived here for a period of ten years on account of marrying Ugandan girls,” he noted.
“But of course, they did this illegally; they have never registered for documents to allow them first of all to stay here, but most importantly to engage in marriage,” he added.
Mundeyi in his statement indicated that the group is in the process of being prosecuted and will be presented in court shortly.
He highlighted that individuals facing minor immigration issues will be allowed to regularise their residency by submitting applications for the appropriate immigration services and will be allowed to stay.
However, those with serious violations, including those who have lived in Uganda for ten years, will face a penalty of $30 (around sh120,000) per day for their unlawful presence and will be deported back to their countries.
