Police in Kampala say they have arrested 12 suspects allegedly involved in the sale of fake tickets for the upcoming Cranes match against South Africa.
Kampala Metropolitan Police spokesperson Patrick Onyango said the suspects were arrested over the weekend as they attempted to sell counterfeit tickets to unsuspecting fans.
“They tried to sell fake tickets to members of the public. The 12 have been arrested and will face the law,” Onyango told journalists on Monday.
He also warned the public to be extra vigilant, noting that fake tickets for the match are in circulation.
“Security agencies have received intelligence about counterfeit tickets being sold to innocent Ugandans,” Onyango said. “We warn the public not to buy tickets yesterday (August 17, 2025) or today (August 18, 2025), as these could be fake.”
Onyango further cautioned that some genuine tickets are being duplicated and sold to multiple people.
“Only the first person to use such a ticket will be allowed into the stadium. The ticket scanning machines will flag the rest as already used,” he explained.
He emphasized that fans should only purchase tickets through official online platforms.
“We don’t want you to fall victim by thinking you can buy any ticket other than online. If the official ticket portals show that tickets are sold out, don’t be convinced by any trick that you’ll get in without one,” he warned.
“Anyone found with a fake or duplicate ticket will not be allowed into Namboole, and we shall keep you in safe custody.”
With large crowds expected, police have urged fans to arrive early. Gates at Namboole Stadium will open as early as 3 p.m. to ease congestion and facilitate thorough security checks.
