KAMPALA, Uganda (UGNEWSLINE) – Police have arrested 18 suspects in an intelligence-led operation targeting the alleged theft and sale of motor vehicle spare parts in Kampala’s Kisekka Market, recovering several vehicle accessories believed to be linked to the criminal activity.
The suspects, including two women, were arrested on Wednesday, 4 November 2026, during a four-hour operation targeting two arcades in Kisekka, namely Ravens Plaza and Life Arcade.
The operation, conducted by police officers from Jinja Road Police Station between 11:00 and 15:00, followed complaints from members of the public about the theft of motor vehicle accessories, particularly during traffic jams and from vehicles parked in different parts of the city.
Police say the operation was intelligence-led and aimed at identifying and dismantling suspected criminal networks involved in stealing, handling and facilitating the sale of stolen vehicle parts.
According to Rachael Kawala, the Kampala Metropolitan Police spokesperson, the arrests followed growing public concerns about the theft of vehicle accessories.
“The operation forms part of ongoing police efforts to dismantle suspected criminal networks involved in the alleged theft, promotion and facilitation of motor vehicle spare parts theft,” Kawala said.
During the operation, officers recovered several vehicle accessories, including grilles, side mirrors, baby mirrors, headlamps and rear lamps. The items have been taken as exhibits to support the ongoing investigations.
The 18 suspects remain in police custody and are undergoing screening as investigators establish their alleged roles in the suspected criminal network.
Police have not yet disclosed the identities of the suspects or indicated whether additional arrests are expected.
Investigations are continuing, with police saying further information will be released as necessary.
The operation comes amid concerns from motorists about the continued theft of vehicle accessories, with some incidents reportedly occurring while vehicles are caught in Kampala’s notorious traffic congestion or left unattended in parking areas.
