Residents of Kyaliwajjala and neighbouring communities have expressed relief following the arrest of a suspected serial robber believed to be behind a series of violent attacks that have unsettled the area.
The suspect, identified as James Lumu, was arrested on June 18, 2026, during what police described as an intelligence-led operation conducted in Kyaliwajjala Kapeera.
According to police, the arrest followed investigations into a violent robbery reported on the evening of June 18 near Nabwojjo in Kyaliwajjala B Zone.
The victim, Tenywa Daniel, 23, a resident of Kiwanga in Mukono District, was allegedly attacked with a blunt object before being robbed of his mobile phone.
Detectives from Kira Division launched investigations immediately after the incident and identified Lumu as a prime suspect.
Preliminary findings suggest that the suspect may be linked to several similar robberies reported in Kyaliwajjala and neighbouring areas. Investigators believe the attacks often involved the use of blunt objects to assault or intimidate victims before stealing their belongings.
The violent nature of the attacks had heightened fears among residents, many of whom reported feeling unsafe, particularly during the evening hours.
Kampala Metropolitan Police Deputy Public Relations Officer, ASP Luke Owoyesigyire, confirmed the arrest and said investigations remain ongoing.
“The suspect is currently in police custody. Our detectives are working tirelessly to piece together all the evidence and establish the full extent of his involvement not only in the recent string of robberies but potentially other criminal activities within Kira Division and the adjoining areas,” Owoyesigyire said.
Police are also pursuing leads that could help identify possible accomplices and determine whether the suspect was part of a wider criminal network operating in the area.
Investigators are prioritising the recovery of stolen property and gathering additional intelligence as they build the case.
The victim whose complaint led to the arrest is reportedly recovering from his injuries and has provided information that assisted investigators in identifying and locating the suspect.
Residents welcomed the arrest, saying it offers hope of improved security.
“We have been living in fear. It became difficult to even walk home after closing my business. This arrest brings us a great deal of hope that we can return to a sense of normalcy and safety,” said Sarah Namugerwa, a shopkeeper in Kyaliwajjala.
Police have urged residents to remain vigilant and continue sharing information that could help prevent crime.
“Your eyes and ears on the ground are invaluable to us. Any piece of information, no matter how small it may seem, could be the crucial link we need to solve cases and prevent future crimes,” Owoyesigyire said.
Authorities said detectives are reviewing previous robbery reports and unsolved cases in search of patterns that could link the suspect to other incidents.
The arrest is being viewed as a significant breakthrough in efforts to improve security in Kyaliwajjala and surrounding communities, where residents have repeatedly raised concerns about violent robberies and attacks.
Police say investigations will continue as they work to establish the full extent of the suspect’s alleged criminal activities and ensure those responsible are brought to justice.
