It was a typical day at the Kampala Central Division Office: long lines, The National Identification & Registration Authority (NIRA) staff moving between counters to maintain order, and citizens waiting patiently to collect their cards during the ongoing mass enrolment and renewal exercise. But behind the routine, a scheme was unfolding.
Two men, posing as NIRA Registration Assistants, approached applicants with promises of “fast processing” and “quick card collection.” They asked for money, claiming it would speed up the process.
However, their plan quickly unraveled. Alert citizens reported the men to NIRA officials, prompting an immediate response. A covert team, blending in with the crowd, confronted the suspects before any transaction could occur.
When confronted, one man tried to leave, while the other attempted to escape but was quickly apprehended. Both were detained, and their scheme foiled.
NIRA reminded the public that enrolment and renewal services are entirely free of charge. There is no fast-tracking, no special connections, and no middlemen involved. Anyone requesting payment for these services is committing fraud and should be reported immediately.
The incident at Kampala Central Division serves as a reminder: citizens should stay vigilant and avoid falling for scams. At NIRA, service remains free, transparent, and accessible to all.
