Kampala Metropolitan Police has launched a crackdown on fraudsters targeting bus passengers in the city.
According to Patrick Onyango, the Kampala Metropolitan Police Spokesperson, the impostors posing as agents for various bus companies are operating in taxi stages and outside bus terminals, primarily targeting travelers heading upcountry.
These scammers Onyango notes have created counterfeit receipts that are distinct from authentic bus company receipts.
To combat this issue, police have arrested and charged five suspects with Obtaining Money by False Pretense.
In collaboration with bus owners, the police have implemented measures to prevent further fraudulent activities.
Onyango explains that the removal of outside offices and desks along roads and streets is part of the measures to prevent fraudsters from operating in these areas. Additionally, ticket sales will only be authorized at official bus company offices to ensure that passengers are buying genuine tickets.
“The police urge the public to exercise caution and only purchase tickets directly from authorized bus company offices, avoiding street vendors,” said Onyango.
The public is also advised to report any suspicious activities to the authorities immediately.