The Kampala Metropolitan Police have arrested 25 suspects accused of violently snatching phones from motorists and passengers along the Northern Bypass, in what authorities describe as an increasingly organised and disruptive form of criminal activity targeting road users stuck in traffic.
According to a statement issued on Saturday by ASP Luke Owoyesigyire, the Deputy Public Relations Officer for Kampala Metropolitan Police, the arrests were made during an operation conducted on Friday, December 5, 2025, around the Double Q area — one of the most affected points on the highway.
Owoyesigyire said the suspects were caught red-handed grabbing phones from victims during heavy traffic, a period the gangs reportedly exploit to attack unsuspecting motorists.
“Several witnesses have already recorded statements, and video footage capturing the suspects in action has been obtained to support the investigations and subsequent prosecution,” he noted.
Police also impounded eight motorcycles allegedly used in the execution of the crimes. All the suspects are currently detained at Nateete Police Division as investigations continue.
Authorities have pledged to intensify deployments along the bypass, especially during peak traffic hours, as the festive season approaches — a period that typically records increased street crime.
“We assure the public that deployments during traffic jam hours will continue… to curb this criminal activity and enhance the safety of road users,” Owoyesigyire said.
Police have further appealed to the public to remain vigilant and cooperate with security personnel to curb the rising cases of theft targeting motorists on major routes in the city.