Police Recover 11 Suspected Stolen Mobile Phones, Arrest One in Kabalagala Operation

What the report says

Nile Post reported that police in Kabalagala Division recovered 11 mobile phones suspected to have been stolen and arrested one person during an intelligence-led operation in Kansanga Parish, Makindye Division, Kampala. The operation was conducted on the night of July 23, 2026, after police received information about people allegedly trading in stolen phones between Kampala City Centre and Kansanga.

According to Kampala Metropolitan Police Deputy Spokesperson Luke Owoyesigyire, officers found the devices wrapped in foil paper, which police believe may have been intended to interfere with tracking or network signals. The recovered phones comprised eight iPhones, two Samsung handsets and one Itel phone. The arrested suspect was identified as Mariam Nakitende, who police said was charged with possession of suspected stolen property. Nile Post reported that another suspect escaped and is being sought.

Police urged members of the public who may have lost phones or had them stolen to contact Kabalagala Police Division with proof of ownership so the devices can be checked and potentially returned. Investigators are still working to determine where the phones came from and who the rightful owners are.

The case highlights continuing police concern over phone theft and resale networks in Kampala. Nile Post reported that police plan to continue intelligence-led operations, track repeat offenders, increase deployment in areas identified as crime hotspots such as Arena, Muyenga and Tank Hill Road, strengthen foot patrols and expand community sensitisation efforts.