LOC Issues Stern Warning on Fake Tickets Ahead of Uganda vs South Africa Clash

The Local Organizing Committee (LOC) of the TotalEnergies African Nations Championship (CHAN) 2024 in Uganda has issued a strong warning against the circulation and purchase of fake or duplicate tickets ahead of Uganda’s crucial Group C clash with South Africa on Monday at Mandela National Stadium, Namboole.

Dr. Dennis K. Mugimba, the LOC Chair of the Communications and Signage Subcommittee, said during the Press briefing at Uganda Media Centre this Sunday that all tickets for CHAN 2024 matches in Uganda have been sold exclusively online since Match Day One. Despite this, reports indicate that unscrupulous individuals continue to sell physical tickets, exposing unsuspecting fans to the risk of being denied entry at the stadium gates.

“Anyone purchasing physical tickets is either buying fake or duplicated tickets,” Dr. Mugimba stressed.

He further warned that offenders involved in producing or selling counterfeit tickets will be apprehended by security agencies.

Uganda Police has been tasked to handle cases of fraud and to ensure safety around Namboole Stadium. Fans who unknowingly purchase fake tickets are encouraged to provide information to the police to aid investigations.

“We ask the public to report to the nearest Uganda Police Force location, information about anyone selling physical or duplicate tickets for CHAN 2024,” Dr. Mugimba appealed.

The statement also made it clear that fans found with counterfeit tickets, regardless of the category: ordinary, silver, premium, VIP, VVIP, or even Presidential, will not be granted access to the stadium. Instead, stewards will politely ask such individuals to return home.

The LOC emphasized that the sale of fake tickets poses not only financial losses to fans but also significant safety and security risks. Overcrowding or duplicate access could compromise the well-being of thousands inside the stadium.

With tickets for Uganda’s clash against South Africa sold out by Friday evening, the LOC is urging fans to use only official online platforms when purchasing tickets for future matches.

So far, Uganda’s matches have attracted record turnouts, with an average of 34,000 supporters filling Namboole Stadium each time the Cranes have played. Authorities are determined to maintain order and ensure that legitimate ticket holders enjoy the historic encounter.

As the Uganda Cranes look to seal a quarterfinal berth, the LOC insists that the safety of fans remains paramount. Their strong stance against fake tickets is a clear message that the tournament must be enjoyed responsibly, with fairness and integrity at the forefront.