Police have arrested 18 suspects in an intelligence-led operation targeting individuals suspected of involvement in the theft and illegal trade of motor vehicle spare parts in Kampala.

The operation, conducted by officers from Jinja Road Police Station, targeted Wakiseka at Ravens Plaza and Life Arcade following an increase in side mirror thefts, particularly during traffic congestion along Jinja Road and around Ntinda Traffic Lights.

Kampala Metropolitan Police spokesperson SP Rachael Kawala said the operation was prompted by growing concerns over the theft of vehicle components, especially when motorists are caught in traffic.

"Police have been registering increasing cases of side mirror theft, especially during traffic jams along Jinja Road and around Ntinda Traffic Lights," Kawala said.

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She said the operation resulted in the arrest of 18 suspects and the recovery of several motor vehicle components.

The crackdown was led by the Division Police Commander, SP Sulait Kataka, alongside the Officer in Charge of Operations, ASP Brian Rugaju.

The operation also involved the Field Force Unit, military officers, Criminal Investigations officers and other security personnel.

Police said the operation was informed by intelligence gathered on individuals suspected of facilitating the theft and illegal circulation of motor vehicle spare parts.

Kawala said the suspects would undergo screening as investigations continue to establish their individual roles and identify other people allegedly connected to the criminal network.

"The 18 suspects will undergo screening as investigations continue to establish their individual involvement and identify other people connected to the illegal trade," she said.

Police said the arrests form part of wider efforts to dismantle networks involved in stealing vehicle components and supplying them to illegal markets.