Police start crackdown on unauthorised Wi-Fi resellers in Kampala
Telecommunications companies have raised concerns that such installations can damage network infrastructure, interfere with maintenance work and increase the risk of service interruptions.
The operation has so far covered Kasangati, Kawaala, Kasubi and Kawempe, according to people familiar with the exercise, with more areas expected to be targeted. (Courtesy photo)
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Police have launched an operation against unauthorised Wi-Fi resellers in Kampala as authorities intensify enforcement against public internet service providers operating without the required regulatory approvals.
The operation has so far covered Kasangati, Kawaala, Kasubi and Kawempe, according to people familiar with the exercise, with more areas expected to be targeted.
The crackdown is being conducted in coordination with the Uganda Communications Commission (UCC), which has also engaged telecommunications companies over the unauthorised use of network infrastructure by some internet resellers.
The operators targeted in the exercise are understood to include businesses providing public Wi-Fi services without the necessary authorisation, as well as those installing cables, routers and other equipment on poles, fibre routes and other telecommunications infrastructure without the consent of infrastructure owners.
Telecommunications companies have raised concerns that such installations can damage network infrastructure, interfere with maintenance work and increase the risk of service interruptions.
They also warn that installations made close to electricity infrastructure can create safety risks for technicians, workers and the public.
MTN said it supports efforts to expand connectivity and does not oppose businesses providing community internet services.
“Our concern is the potential damage, safety risks, service interruptions and business disruption that may arise from the unauthorised use of MTN infrastructure,” the statement from MTN Uganda reads.
MTN Uganda says it has a responsibility to protect its infrastructure and ensure continuity of services that depend on its network.
The enforcement follows a UCC announcement on July 8, 2026, in which the regulator said it was commencing nationwide enforcement against illegal public Wi-Fi services.
According to UCC, investigations had identified unlicensed businesses installing telecommunications equipment to provide public internet hotspots without the required authorisation.
“Those operating without a licence expose consumers to unreliable services, potential data privacy violations, cyber threats, and limited avenues for redress when complaints arise,” Thembo said.
Licensed public internet providers are required to comply with regulatory requirements covering quality of service, consumer protection, data privacy and cybersecurity.
UCC has called on operators running without the required approvals to regularise their businesses or cease operations.
The regulator has also advised consumers to obtain public internet services from licensed providers or authorised agents to reduce their exposure to unreliable services and potential security risks.
The enforcement comes as demand for affordable internet access continues to grow, creating opportunities for small businesses and community-based connectivity providers.
However, authorities say the expansion of such services must be matched by compliance with licensing requirements and proper installation of telecommunications equipment.
The operation is therefore intended not only to enforce licensing requirements but also to protect telecommunications infrastructure, improve consumer protection and reduce avoidable safety, service-continuity and business-disruption risks.