Kampala, Uganda – In a series of targeted operations between November 21 and 23, 2024, the Uganda Police Force arrested 35 individuals across Mbale, Wakiso, Iganga, and Kampala Districts for offenses related to marijuana cultivation, distribution, and consumption, as well as other criminal activities.
Mbale: Farmer Arrested for Cannabis Cultivation
In Nangirima Upper Village, Lwaboba Parish, Bumasikye Sub-county, Mbale District, police destroyed a cannabis plantation and arrested its alleged owner, 52-year-old Oguti Robert.
He faces charges for cultivating prohibited plants under the Narcotic Drugs and Psychotropic Substances (Control) Act.
Wakiso: Raids Target Bars and Ghettos
On November 22, police raided a bar in Gogonya, Wakiso District, suspected of being a marijuana distribution hub.
Two individuals, Nakawunde Lydia and Kawoya, were arrested while smoking marijuana, and large quantities of the drug were seized. The bar owner fled and remains at large.
In a separate operation on November 23, an intelligence-led raid in the Bengazi Ghetto, Ttega Cell, Nabbingo Ward, Kyengera Town Council, led to the arrest of Kyalimpa Evelyn (42).
She was found with a sack containing multiple rolls of marijuana and admitted to being a distributor.
Iganga: Twelve Arrested in Drug Sweep
Simultaneous operations in Busei A and Nampirika, Iganga District, resulted in the arrest of 12 individuals linked to cannabis trade and other drug-related crimes.
Kampala: Crackdown on Criminal Networks
On the night of November 21, Kira Road Police targeted suspected phone snatchers in Ntinda along Stretcher Road.
Eighteen suspects were arrested, and eight motorcycles believed to be used in their operations were impounded. Many of the suspects are believed to be linked to drug-fueled criminal activities.
The operations led to the arrest of 35 individuals:
1 in Mbale for cannabis cultivation.
3 in Wakiso for possession, distribution, and consumption of marijuana.
12 in Iganga for drug-related offences.
18 in Kampala for crimes linked to drug abuse and phone snatching.
The suspects will face charges under the Narcotic Drugs and Psychotropic Substances (Control) Act and other applicable laws.
ACP Kituuma Rusoke, Police Spokesperson, stated, “This nationwide operation reflects our commitment to tackling drug abuse, which fuels other criminal activities. We urge the public to support our efforts by reporting suspicious activities.”
Investigations continue as police work to dismantle remaining drug networks and ensure justice for those involved in these crimes.
