Two Chinese tourists remanded over alleged Shs63m casino scam

KAMPALA — Two Chinese nationals accused of cheating a Kampala casino out of Shs63 million have been remanded to Luzira Prison after appearing before Buganda Road Chief Magistrate’s Court.
Liu Min, 36, and Li Wenshuang, 40, appeared before Chief Magistrate Ritah Neumbe on Thursday, but the court deferred plea-taking because a Chinese interpreter was unavailable.
The suspects will remain on remand until November 6, 2026, when they are expected to return to court for plea-taking.
The prosecution alleges that the two fraudulently obtained Shs63 million from Punjig Casino at Imperial Royale Hotel in Kampala on October 25, 2026.

They face charges of cheating under Section 287 of the Penal Code Act and offorging tickets under the Lotteries and Gaming Act.
According to the prosecution, the accused allegedly used tricks while playing a baccarat machine, swapping play cards with a card-changing device to manipulate the game and forge tickets. Some reports have also cited the alleged use of electronic devices.
The two reportedly entered Uganda on tourist visas.

Senior State Attorney Joan Keko raised concern over what she described as a growing trend of Chinese nationals allegedly entering Uganda on tourist visas and engaging in fraudulent activities targeting investors.
She warned that failure to address such cases could undermine investor confidence in Uganda.
The allegations have not been proved in court, and the accused are presumed innocent until proven guilty.
The case returns to Buganda Road Chief Magistrate’s Court on November 6 for further proceedings.