A total of 130 suspected criminals have been apprehended in a coordinated security operation conducted by joint security forces within the Kampala Metropolitan Policing (KMP) area.
The operation, carried out in collaboration with local leaders and the Uganda People’s Defence Forces (UPDF), took place on the evening of April 10, 2025, in response to growing concerns from residents over a surge in criminal activity in various hotspots across Kampala, Mukono, and Wakiso districts.
According to Patrick Onyango, the Kampala Metropolitan Police spokesperson, the operation was part of a broader initiative aimed at boosting public safety and dismantling criminal networks operating in the region.
He emphasized that the operation was intelligence-led and strategically targeted areas with high crime rates.
One of the major operations was conducted from 5:30 PM to midnight in central Kampala, specifically in the Nakivubo Channel near the Container Village, Owino Market, Kisenyi, and Musajjalumbwa.
These areas are known for harboring thugs involved in violent robberies around Nakivubo Channel, Gwanda Taxi Park, and New Taxi Park. A total of 62 suspects were arrested and are currently being held at Old Kampala Police Station, awaiting court proceedings.
In Wakiso District, another sweep was carried out in Magogo, Kyegobo, Zimudi, and Bukerekere villages, all located in Kakiri Sub-County.
This led to the arrest of 28 suspects, who are now detained at Kakiri Police Station pending screening and potential prosecution.
Meanwhile, in Mukono District, law enforcement agencies targeted areas with a high prevalence of drug abuse and theft, specifically Mbalala, Nakapyini, and Nasuti in Nama Sub-County and Mukono Central Division.
These areas are notorious for criminal elements involved in opium smoking and robbery. As a result, 14 suspects were apprehended.
Additional operations were executed in Maganjo-Janjawaza, Kawanda-Kirinyabigo, and Tula-Mugalu zones within Kawempe Division, leading to the arrest of 26 suspects. Furthermore, sweeps in Namaina, Kabubu, Nakwero, and Kijabijjo areas in Kasangati yielded more arrests, although the exact number of detainees from this area was not specified.
Onyango reiterated that these efforts are part of an ongoing strategy to ensure community safety, reduce crime rates, and restore public confidence.
He praised the collaborative approach between the police, UPDF, and local authorities, noting that such partnerships were critical to the success of the operations.
He also urged the public to continue working closely with security agencies by providing timely and accurate information that can assist in identifying and rooting out criminal elements from their communities.
