Police in Kiboga District have intensified operations against fuel theft and vandalism of road construction materials following an intelligence-led operation that uncovered a suspected criminal network targeting the ongoing Kampala–Kiboga–Kyankwanzi–Hoima road project.
The operation, conducted on June 17, 2026, by officers from Kiboga Police Division, focused on Lwamata Town Council, an area security agencies have identified as a hotspot for fuel siphoning and theft of construction materials.
According to the Wamala Regional Police Spokesperson, SSP Lameck Kigozi, the operation targeted organised criminal groups suspected of stealing fuel from tankers, construction trucks, heavy machinery and storage facilities along the road corridor.
“Intelligence reports indicated the existence of organised criminal networks involved in siphoning fuel and stealing construction materials meant for the road project. This operation was aimed at disrupting those activities and protecting public resources,” SSP Kigozi said.
Police said the theft of diesel, petrol, cement, iron bars, metallic road barriers and other construction materials has caused delays in project implementation and resulted in financial losses to government.
During the operation, police arrested a suspect identified as Muyanja Wilbur, who investigators described as a key figure in the suspected criminal activities.
Security personnel recovered several exhibits, including 20 jerrycans each containing 20 litres of suspected siphoned diesel, a TATA PRIMA truck registration number UBL 030A allegedly being siphoned, 47 iron bars and 27 empty jerrycans believed to have been used for storing and transporting stolen fuel.
Other items recovered included six siphoning tubes and hoses, two funnels, pumping accessories and two mobile phones suspected to have been used in coordinating the activities.
Investigators believe the stolen fuel is sold to small petrol stations, while construction materials such as cement and iron bars are allegedly supplied to local hardware shops. Metallic road construction materials are also suspected to be sold to scrap dealers.
SSP Kigozi warned members of the public against engaging in activities that undermine national development projects.
“Economic sabotage affects every Ugandan because it delays critical infrastructure projects and increases costs to taxpayers. Those found engaging in these criminal acts, either directly or indirectly, will face the full force of the law,” he said.
He added that security agencies have strengthened intelligence networks to monitor individuals suspected of facilitating or benefiting from the theft of construction materials and fuel.
Police have since launched further investigations to identify more suspects and dismantle the wider network believed to be operating in the area.
Authorities said protecting infrastructure projects remains a priority, noting that the successful completion of the Kampala–Kiboga–Kyankwanzi–Hoima road will improve transport connectivity, trade and economic activity in the region.