Police in Kasese Municipality have arrested nine suspected criminals during an intelligence-led operation targeting gangs allegedly involved in phone snatching, burglaries and theft.

The operation was conducted on Monday at about 7:00 p.m. in Acholi Quarters, Nyamwamba West Cell, Nyakasanga II Ward, Nyamwamba Division by officers led by the Kasese District Police Commander (DPC).

Rwenzori East Regional Police spokesperson SP Nelson Elly Maate said the operation forms part of ongoing efforts to dismantle criminal gangs that have been terrorising residents.

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"The suspects arrested are Derrick Muhindo, 18; Lindi Muhindo, 17; Wilson Mumbere, 25; Silver Baluku, 37; and Arnold Amanyire, 26, all residents of Nyamwamba West. Others are Gaste Masereka, 20, and Kiiza Karukasi, 20, both of Kyondo Cell, Scheme Ward; Joel Mumbere, 16, also of Kyondo Cell; and Godwin Bwambale, 18, of Kizungu Cell, all in Nyamwamba Division," Maate said.

Police also recovered several items believed to have been stolen during the operation.

The recovered property includes three television sets, two woofer sets, two amplified speakers, one extracted window, about 40 maroon iron sheets, six television remote controls, one amplifier, one misting machine, one weighing scale and two laptops, among other items.

"The suspects have been charged on holding charges of possession of narcotic drugs and possession of suspected stolen property pending further screening and investigations," Maate said.

He added that police will continue conducting intelligence-led and disruptive operations across Kasese Municipality to dismantle criminal gangs, prevent their regrouping and reduce crime.

Maate also appealed to members of the public who may have lost property through theft or burglary to report to the Central Police Station (CPS) Kasese to identify the recovered items and facilitate further handling of their cases.