The National Lotteries and Gaming Regulatory Board (NLGRB) has shut down four illegal gaming shops in Kibuku Town as part of an intelligence-led enforcement operation targeting unlawful gaming activities.

The operation, conducted under “OperationMashineHaramu,” initially focused on illegal gaming establishments in Kibuku Town. However, investigations uncovered a wider operation allegedly linked to Chinese national Liang Zhang Chen.

Following the closure of the four illegal gaming shops, information provided by an informant led enforcement authorities to Zhang Chen’s residence in Pallisa.

A subsequent search of the premises reportedly uncovered a workshop believed to have been used for the manufacture of gaming equipment, expanding the scope of the investigation.

The NLGRB acknowledged the cooperation of the Regional Police Commander, the Regional Criminal Investigations Department (CID) Officer for the Bukedi Region, and Kibuku District Police officers in supporting the enforcement operation.

The Board also commended the informant whose information contributed to the successful operation and urged members of the public to remain vigilant and report suspected illegal gaming activities.

The NLGRB continues to strengthen enforcement efforts against illegal gaming activities as part of its broader mandate to promote a regulated, responsible and compliant gaming sector in Uganda.