Kampala, Uganda: Joint security operations conducted by the Uganda Police, alongside sister security agencies and local leaders, have led to the arrest of 95 suspects in Kira Municipality and surrounding areas as authorities intensify efforts to curb crime and drug abuse.
The operations followed complaints from residents over criminal gangs terrorising neighbourhoods through bag and phone snatching, night attacks and narcotics-related activity.
On February 3, 2026, security teams carried out a disruptive operation in Kireka Railway, Kamuli, Kyaliwajjala Market and Naalya in Namugongo Division, arresting 62 suspects.
Exhibits of suspected opium were recovered during the sweep. After joint screening, 39 suspects were arraigned before court on February 5 on charges related to possession of narcotic substances.
A day later, on February 4, another operation targeted Kulambiro–Kyanja, Tubba and the Kisaasi sector under the Kira Road Police Division. The operation focused on suspects believed to smoke opium in hideouts before engaging in night-time robberies.
Nineteen suspects were arrested with exhibits and detained at Kira Road Police Division pending fingerprinting, screening and presentation in court.
On February 9, an intelligence-led joint operation was conducted in Mulawa and Nsasa within Kira Municipality, leading to the arrest of 14 suspects. Quantities of suspected narcotic substances were recovered from makeshift structures where the suspects were found.
The suspects are currently detained at Kira Police Station as case files are processed for possible prosecution.
In total, the three operations resulted in 95 arrests, with a significant number of suspects already charged in court. Police say the crackdown is part of sustained efforts to disrupt criminal gangs, curb drug abuse and reduce street crime in the affected areas.
The Uganda Police Force commended residents for cooperating with security agencies and reiterated its commitment to intelligence-led operations to enhance public safety.
Police also appealed to the public to continue sharing timely information on criminal hotspots, suspicious persons and illegal activity through the nearest police stations, area commanders or dedicated hotlines.
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