Four members of Uganda’s boxing team have reportedly gone missing after the conclusion of the 2026 Commonwealth Games in Glasgow, raising concerns among sports officials and prompting efforts to determine their whereabouts.

The athletes, identified as Angel Katushabe, Nuhu Batte, Ibrahim Khemis and Emily Nakalema, were absent when the Ugandan delegation prepared to depart for home after the competition.

Their failure to rejoin the squad has triggered an official response from the country’s sporting authorities.

According to reports, the missing boxers are believed to be seeking asylum, citing hopes of pursuing their boxing careers in an environment with improved facilities, greater professional opportunities and stronger support systems.

They reportedly appealed for understanding, saying their decision was motivated by their desire to secure a better future in the sport.

Ugandan officials have begun investigating the incident, while the Ministry of Education and Sports is expected to issue an official statement addressing the matter.

Authorities are working with relevant agencies to establish the athletes’ locations and clarify the circumstances surrounding their disappearance.

The development is not without precedent. Uganda has experienced similar incidents at previous editions of the Commonwealth Games, with several athletes choosing not to return home after international competitions.

Some later settled abroad after applying for asylum and continued their sporting careers in their host countries.

On the sporting front, the four missing boxers endured mixed fortunes during the tournament. Three of them progressed to the quarter-final stage before exiting the competition, while another was eliminated earlier in the event.

Uganda’s boxing team ultimately returned home without a medal despite showing determination throughout the championship.

The incident has once again highlighted the challenges facing some athletes from developing sporting nations, where limited resources and career opportunities often influence difficult decisions.

As investigations continue, officials hope to establish contact with the boxers while the wider sporting community awaits further updates on their situation.