Kampala Metropolitan Police have arrested a key suspect in an ongoing operation targeting theft of motor vehicle parts, including side mirrors and grills, as well as phone snatching along major traffic corridors.

The operation, conducted by officers from Jinja Road Police Station, took place on March 3, 2026, near the Lugogo-Nakawa traffic lights along Jinja Road, an area previously identified as a hotspot for these crimes.

Kampala Metropolitan Police Spokesperson SP Rachael Kawala identified the suspect as Sserugo Denis, who was apprehended near the former Electoral Commission premises. She said that during interrogation, Denis revealed that he and his accomplices, who remain at large, targeted vehicles--particularly high-end models such as Mercedes-Benz and Range Rover--before removing and stealing side mirrors.

"This operation is part of continuous intelligence-led interventions to curb motor vehicle theft along Jinja Road and Wampewo Avenue," SP Kawala said, noting that the police are actively tracking the remaining suspects.

Keep up with the latest headlines on WhatsApp | LinkedIn

The latest arrest follows a previous operation on October 23 and 24, 2025, in the same areas, which led to the apprehension of two suspects who were subsequently charged with motor vehicle theft.

Several exhibits were recovered at the time, including baby mirrors, side mirrors, grills for Toyota Harrier vehicles, lamps, and other related items retrieved from Wakiseka.

Police continue to urge members of the public to remain vigilant, report suspicious activity, and cooperate with law enforcement to safeguard property along major traffic corridors in Kampala.