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CID Impersonator Arrested in Anti-Handbag Snatching Operation

By Amon Katungulu | Thursday, April 9, 2026
CID Impersonator Arrested in Anti-Handbag Snatching Operation
A police operation triggered by a vigilant teenage victim has led to the arrest of a suspect accused of impersonating a Criminal Investigations Department officer, as authorities intensify efforts to crack down on rising handbag snatching incidents in Kampala.

Police in Nateete are holding a 38-year-old man in connection with impersonation and a handbag snatching incident reported earlier this year.

The arrest of Hassan Kuteeka, a resident of Musigula Zone in Rubaga Division, stems from a case registered in January 2026, in which a 17-year-old victim was targeted by assailants at Nateete traffic lights.

The attackers were reportedly travelling in a motor vehicle, registration number UAQ 950P, a Golf.

According to police, a breakthrough in the case came on April 8, 2026 at around 4:00pm, when the victim spotted the same vehicle and immediately alerted authorities. Officers responded swiftly and intercepted the suspect.

Upon his arrest, Kuteeka was found in possession of an identification card bearing a police logo for the Criminal Investigations Department (CID), with the number CID 006 and his name inscribed on it.

Kampala Metropolitan Police spokesperson SP Racheal Kawala confirmed the development, stating that the suspect had been impersonating a police officer.

“Police in Nateete are holding one suspect in connection with impersonation. He was found in possession of an identification card bearing a police logo for the Criminal Investigations Department, with his name inscribed on it,” Kawala said.

She added that the arrest was directly linked to the earlier handbag snatching incident involving the teenage victim.

“On April 8, 2026 at about 1600 hours, the victim spotted the same vehicle and promptly alerted the police. Officers responded swiftly, leading to the arrest of one suspect,” Kawala explained.

A case of personation has since been registered against the suspect, and police say investigations are ongoing to identify and apprehend other individuals who may have been involved in the January incident.

Authorities have urged members of the public to remain vigilant and report suspicious individuals, especially those posing as law enforcement officers.

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