The US Embassy in Uganda, in collaboration with the Uganda Police, has issued a stringent warning to Ugandan citizens regarding the use of forged documents in applications for US visas. This warning emphasizes the severe repercussions, including permanent blacklisting, for individuals who present fraudulent paperwork.

James Bloomer, the regional security officer at the US Embassy in Uganda, addressed journalists at the Uganda Media Centre in Kampala, revealing a significant increase in such cases. Since July of the previous year, at least 43 Ugandans have been apprehended and handed over to the police for submitting forged documents, and all have subsequently been blacklisted. Bloomer underscored the long-term impact of such actions, stating, "Once we get you with fraudulent documents, you risk your future. You might not be considered for visa again any other time." He specifically cautioned against providing false documents such as fraudulent birth certificates or fake university papers when applying for educational or other visas, as these will prevent visa acquisition.

Bloomer further explained that the embassy possesses a robust detection system designed to identify fraudulent documents. He warned potential offenders, asserting, "Don't use fraudulent documents because we have a team that does nothing, but look through documents to see people who lie or use fraudulent documents."

In addition to the warnings about forgery, the US implemented stricter measures last year for certain foreign nationals, including Ugandans, seeking entry into the country. These measures include a visa bond requirement, which can range from $5,000, $10,000, or $15,000. Consular officers determine the specific bond amount during the visa interview, particularly for individuals deemed to have a higher risk of not returning to their home country. The regional security officer clarified on Monday that this bond is only payable after a visa has been successfully issued, cautioning Ugandans against falling victim to conmen who might demand payment before a visa is granted.

Beyond the application process, the US Embassy official also advised visa recipients to meticulously follow instructions while in the United States, especially regarding the duration of their authorized stay. "If you get the privilege to travel to the US, follow instructions while in US like how long you are supposed to stay. Don't stay longer. It is an agreement between you and the US government to follow the rules of the visa. You therefore have to follow the rules of the visa."

Police spokesperson Kituuma Rusoke reinforced these warnings, particularly focusing on the prevalence of conmen exploiting the visa acquisition process. Rusoke detailed the tactics of these fraudsters, who often target vulnerable individuals who are unfamiliar with official procedures, in urgent need, seeking shortcuts, overly trusting, or desperate. These conmen often appear believable, using forged identity cards, fake introduction letters, and unofficial phone numbers or social media accounts. After receiving money, they typically disappear or continuously demand more, leaving their victims ashamed and reluctant to report. Rusoke reassured the public, stating, "We want to reassure public that genuine public officials don't ask for money," and urged anyone encountering such schemes to report them immediately to the police.