Kampala, Uganda | Kampala Metropolitan Police, in partnership with the Uganda People’s Defence Forces (UPDF) and other security organs, arrested 99 suspects during a series of intelligence-led operations targeting drug abuse and escalating crime in Kira Division, Central Kampala, and Mukono District.
The coordinated operations, carried out on 11th and 12th June 2025, were designed to dismantle criminal networks operating in established hotspots.
Kampala Metropolitan Deputy Police Spokesperson ASP Luke Owoyesigyire confirmed that the efforts were conducted in collaboration with community leaders and local stakeholders to enhance the effectiveness of urban crime control.
In the areas of Najjera, Bulindo, and Shimon within Kira Division, security teams arrested 30 suspects accused of engaging in opium and marijuana use.
The individuals were picked up from identified ghettos known for harbouring criminals involved in minor robberies and break-ins.
Exhibits of narcotic substances—mostly opium—were recovered.
The suspects are currently held at Kira Police Station pending screening and possible legal action.
Simultaneously, a night-time sweep across key areas in downtown Kampala—including William Street, Wilson Road, Top Pub, Nakasero, the Old Taxi Park, Cooper Complex, and Shoprite—led to the arrest of 60 adult males.
Police said the suspects were found loitering in known black spots, using narcotics, and reportedly engaging in crimes such as phone and bag snatching.
They remain in custody at Central Police Station Kampala as investigations continue.
A separate operation was carried out in the early hours of 12th June in Kiwala Village, Nama Sub-County, under the leadership of the Mukono Police Division.
This raid targeted criminal hideouts and resulted in the arrest of nine individuals.
Police indicated that the suspects were in possession of opium and were believed to have links to recent robbery cases in the area.
They are being held at Mukono Police Station, awaiting court appearance.
Owoyesigyire explained that the Kampala Metropolitan Police remains committed to eradicating criminal elements from urban centres through consistent intelligence-led and community-supported efforts.
He stressed the importance of public vigilance, urging citizens to report any suspicious behaviour to nearby police posts as a way of reinforcing collective security.
