Safari Operator Arrested Over Alleged $30,000 Fraud Involving Foreign Tourists

What the report says

Police in Uganda have arraigned Tusubira Annet, the proprietor of Tubaale Safaris, over allegations that she obtained more than $30,000 from foreign tourists through fake safari bookings. Watchdog Uganda reported that she was taken to court on October 2, 2026, on charges of obtaining money by false pretences, after her arrest by Jinja Central Police Station officers on October 30.

According to the report, the complaints came from tourists who paid for trips but did not receive the agreed services. Police said the bookings were made through the company’s website, email and WhatsApp, and that several foreign visitors may have lost significant sums. The incidents cited by investigators include alleged payments of about $12,000 in Masindi, $8,400 from a British tourist in Entebbe, nearly $13,000 from an American couple in Pakwach, and another reported payment of $6,228 in Entebbe.

The article also says the Uganda Tourism Board withdrew Tubaale Safaris’ operating licence on July 21, 2026, but the company allegedly continued to market trips and collect money after that point. Police have asked anyone with similar complaints to report with booking records, payment evidence and message exchanges.

The case highlights the risks travelers can face when arranging tours remotely and the importance of checking an operator’s licence and payment details before sending money. As a general matter, tourism regulators often advise customers to confirm licensing status, keep receipts and use traceable payment methods, especially when booking cross-border travel.