Ugandan police have arrested 25 Rwandan nationals accused of engaging in illegal wolfram mining in Kisoro District, as authorities intensify operations against illicit mineral activities.
The arrests were announced on May 3, 2026, by Kigezi regional police spokesperson Elly Maate, who said the suspects were found mining in the Kirwa site located in Nyarubuye.
According to police, the group had entered Uganda through illegal border routes and were staying in the country without valid documentation.
“Earlier this year, local leaders raised concerns about individuals suspected to be Rwandans carrying out illegal wolfram mining at the Kirwa site in Kisoro,” Maate said.
Acting on intelligence reports, security forces conducted a targeted operation on May 2, where 28 individuals were found at the mining site with approximately 30 kilogrammes of wolfram already extracted.
“Out of the 28 suspects, 25 were confirmed to be Rwandan nationals,” he added.
Authorities said the suspects will face prosecution on charges of illegal mining and unlawful entry into Uganda.
The arrests come amid ongoing efforts by Ugandan authorities to clamp down on unregulated mining activities, particularly in border regions rich in mineral resources.
