A massive multi-agency security crackdown has led to the arrest of more 143 suspected criminals across several areas in and around Kampala, as authorities intensify efforts to stamp out rising crime.
The coordinated night operations, conducted between February 18 and 19, 2026, targeted crime hotspots long associated with narcotics abuse, armed robbery, muggings, and phone snatching.
In Bukerere and Namataba Town Council, joint security teams arrested 19 suspects during late-night swoops.
According to Luke Owoyesigyire, Deputy Public Relations Officer for the Kampala Metropolitan Police, the suspects were rounded up from identified black spots known for harboring individuals involved in smoking narcotics, waylaying pedestrians, and robbery.
Security operatives recovered several exhibits, including narcotic substances. The suspects are currently detained at Goma and Namataba Police Stations pending prosecution.
Weapons, stolen phones recovered
In Kisaasi and Kyanja under the Kira Road Police Division, seven suspects were arrested during separate operations carried out on the same dates.
Owoyesigyire said authorities recovered pangas, a hammer, suspected stolen mobile phones, bags, identification cards, and rolls of marijuana.
The suspects remain in custody as they await court action.
Relatedly, security teams in Kabalagala, zeroed in on criminals accused of targeting motorists and pedestrians around Arena Mall and Mukwano Road. Seven suspects linked to muggings and theft of vehicle side mirrors were arrested, charged, and detained pending prosecution.
110 arrested in midnight sweep
The most dramatic operation unfolded in Nakulabye under Old Kampala Police Station, where a midnight-to-dawn crackdown between 12:01am and 3:00am netted 110 suspects including 40 women and 70 men.
The arrests followed mounting public complaints about escalating robberies, phone snatching, and drug abuse in the area.
Security teams recovered narcotic substances and knives during the sweep.
All suspects have since been charged and are awaiting court proceedings.
Police say the aggressive operations will continue as part of efforts to end crime.
