Kampala — The National Lotteries and Gaming Regulatory Board (NLGRB) has directed players to immediately withdraw their money following the closure of Mel Bet, operated by Fox Bet, which has officially ceased operations in Uganda.
In a public notice, the regulator said Fox Bet, trading as Mel Bet, is no longer licensed to operate in Uganda with effect from January 1, 2026. As a result, all betting and gaming activities under the Mel Bet brand are now illegal.
“The National Lotteries and Gaming Regulatory Board informs the public that Fox Bet trading as Mel Bet has ceased operations in Uganda and is no longer licensed effective 1st January 2026,” the statement reads.
The Board advised all players with active accounts to withdraw any remaining funds immediately and close their accounts, warning that continued engagement with the platform exposes users to financial risk.
“Engaging with unlicensed operators exposes players to loss of funds and lack of recourse,” the regulator cautioned.
The announcement follows reports that Mel Bet has shut down its physical operations and online services in the country, leaving customers uncertain about the status of their balances.
The NLGRB reiterated that only betting companies duly licensed by the Board are permitted to operate in Uganda and urged the public to verify the licensing status of gaming operators before placing bets.
Uganda’s gaming sector has undergone increased regulatory scrutiny in recent years, with authorities tightening compliance requirements to protect consumers and ensure proper revenue collection.
Players seeking clarification or assistance have been encouraged to contact the Board directly through its official channels.
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