KAMPALA — Police have arrested 12 suspects accused of selling counterfeit tickets to the eagerly awaited CHAN 2024 group-stage match between the Uganda Cranes and South Africa, scheduled for this evening at Mandela National Stadium, Namboole.
During the weekly security briefing held at Police Headquarters in Naguru, spokesperson Kituuma Rusoke confirmed the arrests, which were made over the weekend.
“We have apprehended 12 individuals involved in distributing fake CHAN match tickets,” Kituuma revealed. “Fans are warned not to purchase tickets from unauthorized vendors. The only legitimate channel is the designated online ticketing platform.”
Authorities have issued repeated warnings about fraudulent tickets ahead of the high-stakes game. The Local Organising Committee (LOC) for CHAN 2024 recently clarified that no physical tickets are being issued for the tournament.
Dr Dennis Mugimba, Head of Communications for the LOC, emphasized that all hard-copy tickets currently circulating are invalid. “Our digital ticketing system at Namboole is built to identify and reject any fake or duplicated entries,” he noted.
Mugimba also urged fans to avoid sharing their digital tickets and to print them using high-quality printers if needed, ensuring all security features are clearly visible for verification at the gates.
As anticipation builds, organizers have confirmed that tickets for tonight’s fixture are completely sold out. Uganda enters the match needing just a draw to advance to the knockout stages, while South Africa faces elimination unless they secure a full three points.
Fans are encouraged to arrive early, use official transport routes, and be vigilant to avoid falling victim to ticket scams as Uganda continues its journey in this year’s African Nations Championship.