KAMPALA, Uganda: Police in Nateete have apprehended a suspect linked to a spate of motor vehicle number plate thefts across Kampala.
The arrested individual, identified as Steven Semuju, 33, from Busega, was caught following a tip-off that led authorities to multiple hidden caches of stolen plates.
Among the recovered items were UAH 286S, UA 309BQ, UA 682BZ, UAM 277G, UAN 796B, and a pair from UBK 264Y.
The Kampala Metropolitan police spokesperson, Rachel Kawala, said the investigation was triggered by a bizarre theft on the night of February 11, 2026, when unknown assailants broke into the compound of one Patrick Lutamaguzi in Busega–Kabale, Rubaga Division, and stole the number plate of his silver Toyota Opa (Reg. No. UAN 796B). Remarkably, the thief left a contact number scrawled on the vehicle, providing a critical lead for police.
Following his arrest, Ssemujju guided investigators to locations where the stolen plates had been stashed, including sites in Busega–Kabale, Kiteemu Kivulu, and Kyengera Town Council in Wakiso District.
Police confirmed that the suspect remains in custody as investigations continue, and he is expected to face formal charges in court.
Police have urged the public to report any suspicious activity related to vehicle parts theft.
