Police in Uganda have arrested Annette Tusubira, the proprietor of Tubale Safaris, on allegations of defrauding foreign tourists of $39,604 (approximately sh146 million) through safari bookings that were paid for but never delivered.
Tusubira was taken into custody on October 30 by officers from Jinja Central Police Station following complaints from tourists who had paid for safari services through the company's website, email, and WhatsApp platforms but did not receive the promised services.
Four Separate Transactions
According to Police spokesperson Rusoke Kituuma, investigations have identified four separate transactions involving tourists from different countries, including the United States and the United Kingdom.
Addressing journalists at the Police headquarters in Naguru, Kampala, on Monday, Kituuma detailed the incidents:
- The first incident involved a foreign tourist who allegedly paid Tusubira $12,000 on July 18. The complaint was reported at Masindi Police Station.
- On July 31, Tusubira allegedly obtained another $8,400 from a British tourist, with the matter reported at Entebbe Central Police Station.
- A third incident occurred on August 19, when she allegedly received $12,966 from an American couple. The case was reported at Pakwach Police Station.
- In the fourth incident, reported in October, Tusubira allegedly obtained another $6,238, with the complaint registered at Entebbe Police Station.
The arrest highlights growing concerns over online fraud in the tourism sector, where scammers exploit the trust of international visitors. Police have urged tourists to exercise caution when making bookings online and to verify the legitimacy of tour operators.
Investigations into the matter are ongoing, and Tusubira is expected to face charges related to fraud and obtaining money by false pretense. The case has sent shockwaves through the local tourism industry, with stakeholders calling for stricter regulation of safari operators to protect the country's reputation as a safe and reliable destination.
Tourism is a key sector in Uganda's economy, and incidents like this could deter potential visitors. Authorities have assured that they are taking the matter seriously and will ensure justice is served.
As the investigation continues, tourists are advised to book through reputable and licensed operators and to use secure payment methods. The police have also encouraged anyone who may have been a victim of similar fraud to come forward and report to the nearest police station.
