Mbarara, (UG):- The Territorial Police in Rwizi Region and Mbarara City North Division are holding in custody 16 suspects who are part of a criminal gang that has been targeting pedestrians and other passengers on boda bodas within the areas of Nyakinengo, Katojo, Migamba, Mwere, Koranorya-Kikade areas in Mbarara City.
According to Police Spokesperson Mr Fred Enanga, the suspects who were arrested in a swoop on Sunday, March 24, were found armed with pangas and sharp implements which they have been using during the ride-along attacks on boda bodas.
Mr Enanga identified the suspects as; Bamushangamu Ponsiano, Nsubuga Sulaiman, Matovu Jawadu, Muhimbise Gaitan, Sunday Norman, Ninshasha Boaz, Ssekahinga Allan, Kiiza Abel, Wandera Fred, Tumusiime Crinerio, Kaweesa John, Taremwa Ivan, Ahimbisibwe Isma.
Others include; Mwebaze Possiano, Tumuhairwe Johnson and Tukamushaba Doreen (the only female suspect).
Enanga who was addressing journalists at Naguru police headquarters on Monday said a total of 6 motorcycles that were being used to conduct the ride-along attacks and robberies were impounded and will also held in the ongoing investigations into the aggravated theft case.
“These include Bajaj Boxers, under registration numbers, UFS 884P, UFS 602Q, UFS 260Y, UFT 977Y, UFZ 012U, and UFJ 652D, which are all parked at Mbarara City North Division offices,” Mr Enanga said, adding that the main loot for the suspects is smartphones, bags and wallets from passengers and riders.
The Police Spokesperson said the arrest of the criminal gang demonstrates the force’s commitment to fighting against theft and robbery cases, and reiterated that a serious for the other members who are part of the gang is still active and underway to have them apprehended.
“The arrest of the criminal gang members and the serious hunt of other accomplices who are still at large, demonstrates our collective resolve, as the Joint Security and Intelligence Agencies to fight violent crime within Mbarara City and the neighbouring districts,” he said.
“We urge the public to continue volunteering information to us, to help weed into criminals terrorising them.”
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