Mwizukulu wa Buganda
JF-Expert Member
- Nov 19, 2024
- 763
- 1,949
A coordinated security operation conducted by the Uganda Police Force in partnership with the Uganda People's Defence Forces (UPDF) has led to the arrest of 18 suspected criminals linked to a growing wave of phone snatching and street robberies in Kampala.
The intelligence-led operation, carried out around the Clock Tower Kampala area, followed widespread public concern and viral social media footage depicting violent thefts targeting unsuspecting motorists and pedestrians.
According to Kampala Metropolitan Police Spokesperson, SP Racheal Kawala, the suspects were part of an organized group operating from a makeshift camp along the Nakivubo Channel in Katwe, specifically within Katenda Zone. The location had reportedly been used as a hideout to plan and execute criminal activities.
“The operation was aimed at restoring safety and addressing the rising incidents of phone snatching and robberies in the area. We identified and dismantled a criminal hub that has been terrorizing members of the public,” SP Kawala said.
Authorities confirmed that the illegal structures serving as the suspects’ base were demolished by the Kampala Capital City Authority (KCCA) shortly after the arrests.
During the operation, security forces recovered several exhibits, including knives, a hammer, and substances suspected to be narcotics, further pointing to the group’s involvement in violent and organized crime.
In a related development, additional joint operations conducted on Easter Monday, April 6, 2026, in areas including West Zone, Base Zone, and Kibuye I Parish in Makindye Division resulted in the arrest of over 100 more suspects believed to be connected to similar criminal networks.
All arrested individuals are currently in police custody and are expected to face formal charges in court as investigations continue.
Authorities have reassured the public of their commitment to maintaining law and order and urged citizens to remain vigilant and report suspicious activities.
Source: NilePost
The intelligence-led operation, carried out around the Clock Tower Kampala area, followed widespread public concern and viral social media footage depicting violent thefts targeting unsuspecting motorists and pedestrians.
According to Kampala Metropolitan Police Spokesperson, SP Racheal Kawala, the suspects were part of an organized group operating from a makeshift camp along the Nakivubo Channel in Katwe, specifically within Katenda Zone. The location had reportedly been used as a hideout to plan and execute criminal activities.
“The operation was aimed at restoring safety and addressing the rising incidents of phone snatching and robberies in the area. We identified and dismantled a criminal hub that has been terrorizing members of the public,” SP Kawala said.
Authorities confirmed that the illegal structures serving as the suspects’ base were demolished by the Kampala Capital City Authority (KCCA) shortly after the arrests.
During the operation, security forces recovered several exhibits, including knives, a hammer, and substances suspected to be narcotics, further pointing to the group’s involvement in violent and organized crime.
In a related development, additional joint operations conducted on Easter Monday, April 6, 2026, in areas including West Zone, Base Zone, and Kibuye I Parish in Makindye Division resulted in the arrest of over 100 more suspects believed to be connected to similar criminal networks.
All arrested individuals are currently in police custody and are expected to face formal charges in court as investigations continue.
Authorities have reassured the public of their commitment to maintaining law and order and urged citizens to remain vigilant and report suspicious activities.
Source: NilePost
