Four Ugandan boxers vanish to ‘claim asylum’ after Games

By the Editorial Team · Wednesday, August 5, 2026

Four Ugandan boxers disappeared in Glasgow after the Commonwealth Games ended, prompting investigations by Police Scotland and cooperation with UK immigration authorities. One athlete reportedly stated the group intends to seek asylum in the UK to access better training opportunities, reflecting ongoing issues with athletes staying beyond sanctioned event periods.

Four Ugandan boxers have been reported missing in Glasgow following the conclusion of the Commonwealth Games, prompting ongoing investigations by Police Scotland and engagement with UK immigration authorities. The athletes—Nuhu Batte, Angel Katushabe, Ibrahim Kemis, and Emily Nakalema—did not rejoin the Ugandan delegation of 55 team members when it departed Scotland.

Police Scotland confirmed receiving reports regarding the absence of several athletes and said inquiries are underway to determine the circumstances. Officials are working in coordination with the UK Home Office. While the Home Office declined to comment publicly, sources indicated any breaches of immigration laws would be addressed accordingly.

According to Ugandan media outlet NBS Sport, one of the missing boxers, who requested anonymity, said the group plans to seek asylum in the United Kingdom. The athlete reportedly expressed a desire to continue their boxing careers in a country perceived to offer superior training facilities and opportunities compared to Uganda. The statement also included an appeal to Ugandans for understanding of their decision.

Sophie Ashcroft, a spokeswoman for Glasgow 2026, emphasized that the event hosted approximately 3,000 athletes from 74 Commonwealth nations and territories. She noted that close coordination continues with Police Scotland, Border Force, and UK Visas & Immigration to ensure a secure and orderly conclusion to the Games, highlighting adherence to policies governing athlete length of stay and accommodation provisions.

Instances of athletes disappearing from their national teams after major international sporting events have occurred in the past. Similar cases include seven athletes from Cameroon at the 2012 London Olympics and two Ugandan rugby sevens players after Glasgow 2014.

Efforts to obtain comments from Uganda’s Ministry of Education and Sports and Team Uganda have been unsuccessful as of yet. Police inquiries remain ongoing as authorities assess the situation with regard to immigration and public safety.

This article was reported by synthesizing coverage from multiple independent news outlets to present a balanced, unbiased account. Read about our editorial standards. Spotted an error? Let us know.