Security forces in Arua City have arrested 93 suspects following a coordinated night operation targeting betting centres and other crime hotspots within the Central Business Division.
The joint operation, conducted by the Uganda Police Force and the Uganda People’s Defence Forces (UPDF), focused on betting centres along Transport Road in Barzar Ward and surrounding areas identified as crime-prone.
According to the Police Public Relations Officer for the West Nile Region, Senior Superintendent of Police Josephine Angucia, the suspects—mostly male youths—were picked up on allegations including illegal possession of narcotic substances and unlawful possession of dangerous weapons.
“This was an intelligence-led disruptive operation aimed at addressing increasing cases of theft and robbery within Arua City. We have been receiving concerns from the public about criminal elements operating both during the day and night,” Angucia said.
Police said intelligence reports indicated that some betting centres had become convergence points where individuals allegedly plan and coordinate criminal activities.
“It is suspected that some individuals gather in these betting centres, plan their missions, and later carry out crimes. That is why we targeted such locations,” she added.
Following the arrests, the suspects were screened with the involvement of local leaders. Police confirmed that about half of those arrested have since been formally charged, while others were cautioned and released after preliminary screening.
SSP Angucia said investigations are ongoing and that suspects with actionable cases will be taken to court once their files are sanctioned by the Office of the Director of Public Prosecutions.
“Those with cases to answer will be taken to court, while others who were found not culpable have been released. We are committed to ensuring that justice is served,” she said.
She further noted that similar security operations will continue as part of a broader strategy to restore order and improve public safety in Arua City.
“This operation is part of a broader strategy to clean up Arua City. We shall sustain these efforts until sanity fully returns,” Angucia added.
Residents in Arua City have recently raised concerns over a rise in theft and robbery incidents, prompting security agencies to increase night surveillance and enforcement operations across key urban areas.
Authorities say the continued intelligence-led crackdowns are intended to disrupt criminal networks and deter organised crime within the city.
