Police probe robberies after Mityana residents seize suspects with military gear

What the report says

Police in Mityana District are investigating a suspected aggravated robbery case after residents of Kiwoya Bweza Village in Kakindu Sub-county detained a man allegedly found with military uniforms, weapons and burglary tools following a series of night-time attacks. According to Nile Post, the man was identified as Wilberforce Nzabashaija, 26, a resident of Kiriri in Makindye Division, Kampala, and police said he was later linked to an alleged accomplice, Fredrick Kusasira.

The report says residents became alerted after victims raised alarm during the incidents and helped arrest Nzabashaija before handing him over to police. Officers recovered items including military uniforms, a knife, pliers and a screwdriver, which were taken to Kakindu Police Station as exhibits. Police said the suspects are accused of moving from house to house, stealing from one home and threatening occupants while demanding cash and valuables.

Wamala Regional Police spokesperson SSP Lameck Kigozi said investigators believe the military attire may have been stolen earlier in Kampala and could have been used to disguise the suspect during crimes. The article says Nzabashaija allegedly admitted to an earlier burglary in Makindye Division involving property taken from a serving UPDF officer.

Police also said the suspect’s mother was arrested on suspicion of obstructing officers during the follow-up operation. The case remains under investigation, with authorities planning to submit the file for legal guidance and possible charges once inquiries are complete. The incident highlights concerns around village robberies and the role of community reporting in stopping further harm.