CRIME: Kampala Metropolitan Police have carried out a sweeping series of coordinated operations across multiple divisions, arresting scores of suspects and disrupting what authorities describe as organized criminal activity in several high-risk areas. The intelligence-led crackdown, conducted on April 22, 2026 targeted known black spots, suspected hideouts, and individuals believed to be involved in crimes ranging from burglary to vandalism.
The Deputy Kampala Metropolitan police spokesman, Luke Owoyesigyire said the operations are part of an ongoing strategy to curb rising urban crime and dismantle networks exploiting informal structures for illegal activities.
In the Kira Road policing area, particularly Mulimira and Kyebando, a team led by the Divisional Police Commander arrested 31 suspects during a targeted raid. The individuals are currently being held at Kira Road Police Division, where they are undergoing screening and fingerprinting as investigations continue.
Meanwhile, in Ntinda, a patrol team responding to suspicious activity in Kigowa intercepted a group of suspected criminals. The group fled on sight, abandoning a cache of crude weapons and tools commonly associated with violent attacks and break-ins, including pangas, hammers, iron bars, and jerrycans containing suspected fuel. Officers later tracked down and arrested two suspects who had concealed themselves in a residential garage. Preliminary findings suggest the group may have been planning arson attacks linked to an ongoing land dispute, though inquiries are still underway.
Owoyesigyire noted that in Nateete’s Kanaala Zone, police arrested another suspect found in possession of four motorcycles believed to be stolen, along with multiple number plates. He stressed that authorities are working with relevant agencies to verify ownership as the suspect remains in custody.
Operations extended to Entebbe, where 31 suspects were apprehended in Bunono and Guda during raids targeting theft, burglary, and vandalism.
Police confirmed that those arrested have since been formally charged and are awaiting court proceedings.
A separate operation in Kasangati Division, covering Wampewo Ward, Gayaza, and Kijabijjo, resulted in the arrest of more than 47 individuals. Many were picked up from betting centres and locations identified as hubs for criminal activity.
In Kijabijjo, officers also uncovered an illegal garage allegedly being used to dismantle stolen motorcycles. Two suspects were arrested at the site, and several motorcycle parts, number plates, and vandalized components were recovered. Police have raised concern over a growing trend in which criminal groups are using betting centres, unfinished buildings, and makeshift structures as operational bases. Authorities say targeted enforcement efforts will continue to address these evolving tactics.
