A total of 99 suspects have been arrested following intelligence-led operations conducted by Kampala Metropolitan Police across Kampala, Wakiso, and Mukono districts.
The operations, carried out on 11th and 12th June 2025, targeted known hotspots for drug abuse, robbery, and other urban crimes.
According to the Kampala Metropolitan Police, the operations were conducted jointly with the Uganda People’s Defence Forces (UPDF), Crime Intelligence Units, and local leadership, and aimed at curbing the rise in criminal activity and drug abuse in urban areas.
In Kira Division, Wakiso District, security forces targeted the areas of Najjera, Bulindo, and Shimon. A total of 30 suspects were arrested from ghettos and black spots known to harbor individuals involved in marijuana and opium abuse, as well as simple robberies and house break-ins.
Police recovered exhibits of narcotic substances, particularly opium. All suspects are detained at Kira Police Station pending screening and further prosecution.
In Central Kampala, a night operation covered William Street, Wilson Road, Top Pub, Nakasero, Old Taxi Park, Cooper Complex, and Shoprite. Here, 60 male adult suspects were arrested for loitering in areas commonly associated with criminal activity.
Police said many were reportedly consuming narcotic substances and involved in acts such as phone and bag snatching. The suspects were detained at Central Police Station Kampala for screening and legal processing.
In the early hours of June,12, a similar crackdown took place in Kiwala Village, Nama Sub-County, Mukono District. Nine suspects were arrested from known criminal hideouts and found in possession of opium.
They are believed to be connected to robbery incidents in the area and are currently detained at Mukono Police Station, awaiting court action.
ASP Luke Owoyesigyire, the Deputy spokesperson of Kampala Metropolitan Police, said the coordinated raids are part of a larger strategy to restore safety in urban centers.
“Kampala Metropolitan Police remains committed to ridding urban centers of criminal elements through continuous intelligence-led and community-supported operations,” he said.
He further urged the public to support the police in fighting crime.
“The public is urged to remain vigilant and report suspicious activity to the nearest police post.”