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Dogs rescued from alleged cruelty in Uganda scam operation
Police in Uganda, working with animal rights groups, have freed dozens of dogs kept in deplorable conditions at two shelters near Mityana following a BBC investigation into online fundraising fraud. One suspect has been arrested, while two others remain at large.
Arrest and charges
Owen Godfrey Membe, the owner of one of the raided shelters, appeared in court on Wednesday and pleaded not guilty to animal cruelty. He was remanded in custody until May 27. Prosecutors accuse him of violating Uganda's Animals (Prevention of Cruelty) Act by allegedly killing an animal in an unnecessarily cruel manner.
The case is being pursued as a private prosecution by the Animal Justice Center, a Ugandan nonprofit, with financial backing from We Won't Be Scammed, a UK-based organization that investigates fraudulent animal rescue schemes.
Dogs' condition and next steps
The rescued dogs remain at the raided shelters but are now under the care of the Animal Welfare Alliance Uganda (AWAU), a coalition of local and international activists. AWAU, which includes veterinarians, has secured land to build an emergency shelter for the animals.
We Won't Be Scammed said it is coordinating with partner facilities in Uganda to relocate the dogs for long-term care.
BBC investigation exposes scam tactics
The raids follow a BBC report revealing how scammers in Mityana exploited social media to solicit donations for dogs in distress. Undercover footage showed that funds were instead used to fund lavish lifestyles, with some animals allegedly harmed to create compelling content.
The investigation highlighted the case of Russet, a dog with severe leg injuries whose story was shared across multiple platforms to solicit donations. Veterinary records suggested the injuries may have been intentionally inflicted. Russet later died.
Calls for justice and reform
Bart Kakooza, vice-chairperson of AWAU, described the arrest as a critical first step. "The world is watching to see how Uganda will deliver justice and ensure these animals are given lives free from cruelty," he said.
Activists urge international donors to verify shelters before contributing and call for stronger enforcement of animal welfare laws.
