BBC investigation uncovers Ugandan scammers abusing dogs to elicit donations abroad
A long-running BBC investigation has uncovered a Uganda-based network that deliberately injures stray dogs and then runs fake 'rescue' campaigns to raise tens of thousands of dollars from animal-lovers abroad. Social-media accounts mainly target European and American donors. Authorities have opened criminal proceedings against the ringleaders.
A months-long undercover investigation by BBC Africa Eye has exposed a fraud network operating in and around Uganda's capital, Kampala. Members deliberately injure stray dogs, then post videos claiming the animals need urgent treatment to solicit donations. Documents reviewed by the BBC show at least 70,000 dollars transferred over three years.
Most donors are individuals in the United Kingdom, Germany, and the United States. Funds routed through PayPal and GoFundMe-style platforms typically cannot be reversed once fraud is suspected. After the BBC's footage aired, Facebook and TikTok began suspending the relevant accounts.
Ugandan police have opened criminal proceedings against the alleged ringleaders on charges of cruelty to animals and fraud. Animal welfare organisations urged the public to vet international rescue campaigns more carefully. The case highlights the lack of verification on online animal-rescue fundraising.
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