Police Arrest 70 Suspects in Crackdown on Crime, Public Nuisance in Kampala Metropolitan Area

What the report says

Kampala Metropolitan Police said they arrested at least 70 suspects in a set of intelligence-led operations across parts of Mukono, Wakiso and Kira, and along Jinja Road, in a crackdown on suspected crime, narcotic use and public nuisance. The report from Watchdog Uganda said the operations were carried out on August 12 and 13, 2026, at several locations within the Kampala metropolitan policing area.

In Mukono Central Division, police said 10 suspects were picked up on the evening of August 12 in Kikoza Village, Namumira Ward and nearby areas. Authorities said the area was known for gatherings linked to suspected narcotic use and crimes such as robbery and phone snatching. The suspects were reportedly taken to Mukono Police Station for screening and further investigation.

In Wakiso Division, police said 34 people were arrested in Kyoga, Kisimbiri and Wakiso Town on public nuisance allegations. In Kira Division, 15 suspects were detained in Kitukutwe, Bulindo, Katuli, Kiwologoma and Buwate, with suspected narcotic substances recovered as exhibits. Police also arrested 11 suspects along Jinja Road, including near Spear Motors, Lugogo and Nakawa traffic lights, for conduct said to disrupt traffic and orderly use of public space.

The police said the actions are part of ongoing efforts to reduce criminal activity, discourage drug abuse and maintain order in Kampala’s wider metropolitan area.