The Uganda Police Force has intensified operations across the Kampala Metropolitan Area, arresting at least 136 suspects in a week-long crackdown on criminal hideouts as part of efforts to restore public order and ensure the safety of residents.
According to a statement released by the Police, the coordinated operations targeted notorious black spots known for harbouring wrongdoers engaged in robberies, narcotic substance abuse, and other unlawful activities.
In Mukono District alone, 61 suspects were arrested in a series of operations conducted in Goma, Nama, Central, and Nakisunga sub-counties.
The raids covered areas such as Goma-Jogo Centre, Walusubi, Kitega, Wantoni, Beganzi, Nsube A, Namuyenje, Namataba, Namawojjolo, and Nataburwa in Namanve Industrial Park.
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Several exhibits of suspected narcotic substances were recovered, and all suspects were later arraigned in court.
At Kira Division, police arrested three suspects from a home in Kiyinda Zone where narcotics were being sold and consumed. Eleven bundles of rolled substances believed to be narcotics were recovered.
In Nansana, eight suspects were apprehended during operations in Wamala Kasumba, Karanzi, Kinyarwanda, and Tabba sub-zones. They were found with suspected narcotic substances and were also charged in court.
Operations along Jinja Road, particularly in Thailand, Katogo, and Kago areas of Kinawataka, led to the arrest of 16 suspects accused of criminal activities, including unlawful possession of narcotics and public nuisance.
In Old Kampala Division, police conducted two separate operations in Nakulabye and Kisenyi, arresting 48 suspects--24 in each location. Several exhibits, including narcotic substances and dangerous weapons, were recovered. The suspects have since appeared before courts of law.
Beyond arrests, the Kampala Metropolitan Police leadership has been conducting community engagement drives to strengthen cooperation with the public. On October 30, Nansana Police Division hosted a major meeting chaired by Kampala Metropolitan Police Commander CP Ecega Richard, alongside local leaders and RDC representatives.
The discussions focused on improving community vigilance, addressing domestic conflicts, identifying dark spots, and fostering collaboration between residents and security agencies.
A similar sensitisation meeting was held in Bulabira-Kalitunsi, Najjera, on October 29, emphasising neighbourhood watch programs and timely information sharing to prevent crime.
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The Kampala Metropolitan Police commended the public, local leaders, and sister security agencies for their support, noting that the combined efforts have significantly contributed to the success of ongoing operations.
"The Uganda Police Force remains committed to maintaining peace and security through proactive enforcement and strong community partnerships," the statement concluded.
