Police arrest 75 in Kampala Metropolitan crime, boda boda crackdown

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At least 75 suspects have been arrested in a series of coordinated police operations targeting crime and illegal motorcycle activities across the Kampala Metropolitan area.

According to Kampala Metropolitan Police, the intelligence-led operations were conducted between March 15 and 17, 2026, in several crime-prone areas, including Mutungo Zone 4, Nasuti in Mukono, Mbuya I parish, Kireku Railway zone, Kireku Main zone, Bweyogerere Central zone, and Wabigalo parish.

Police said the targeted areas had been identified as hotspots for criminal activity, including robbery, burglary, theft, and the sale and consumption of narcotic substances.

In a statement on Tuesday (March 17), deputy public relations officer ASP Luke Owoyesigyire said the operations were aimed at restoring order and improving safety in affected communities.

“These operations are intelligence-led and are specifically targeting criminal elements who have been terrorising residents in these areas,” Owoyesigyire said.

“We are committed to ensuring that such suspects are apprehended and brought to justice.”

The operations led to the arrest of 75 suspects, who are now facing charges ranging from possession of narcotic substances to public nuisance.

Several exhibits linked to the alleged crimes were also recovered during the crackdown.

The operations also uncovered suspected illegal activities involving motorcycles, commonly known as boda bodas.

In Mbuya I parish, police impounded seven motorcycles from a garage believed to be engaged in altering and reconditioning motorcycle parts.

Among the motorcycles recovered were two without number plates, two with concealed registration numbers, and three bearing suspected fake number plates.

Police said the motorcycles are undergoing verification as investigations continue to establish possible links to criminal networks.

“We have noticed a trend where motorcycles are being tampered with to conceal their identity and facilitate crime,” Owoyesigyire explained.

“The verification process will help us determine their rightful ownership and any connection to ongoing criminal cases.”

In a separate incident, a suspected thief was lynched by a mob in Masooli cell, Kasangati in Wakiso, after he allegedly attempted to raid poultry farms with accomplices.

The suspect, who was reportedly armed with a panga, was killed before police could intervene.

Police condemned the act of mob justice and urged the public to allow law enforcement agencies to handle suspected criminals.

“We strongly discourage mob justice. While we understand the frustration of the public, taking the law into one’s own hands undermines justice and due process,” Owoyesigyire said.

“We urge residents to report suspects to police so that they can be handled within the law.”

Police said the scene was processed, and investigations into the mob action have commenced.

All suspects arrested during the operations remain in custody at various police stations pending screening and prosecution.

Owoyesigyire said the operations will continue as part of broader efforts to enhance public safety.

“We shall sustain these operations to ensure that communities remain safe and free from criminal elements,” he said.