Kampala, Uganda: Kampala Metropolitan Police have recovered more than 300 suspected stolen mobile phones and arrested 30 suspects following an intelligence-led operation at Cooper Complex in Kampala’s Central Business District.
The Tuesday operation targeted individuals suspected of dealing in stolen mobile phones after police received intelligence indicating that the commercial building had become a key trading point for stolen electronic devices.
According to ASP Luke Owoyesigyire, the Deputy Spokesperson for Kampala Metropolitan Police, the recovered phones have been secured pending verification of their rightful owners.
“Kampala Metropolitan Police has today conducted an operation at Cooper Complex in Kampala’s Central Business District following intelligence indicating that the building had become a hub for individuals involved in the theft and sale of suspected stolen mobile phones,” Owoyesigyire said.
He said over 300 suspected stolen mobile phones were recovered during the operation, while 30 suspects were arrested and are currently being held in police custody to assist with investigations.
“During the operation, police recovered over 300 suspected stolen mobile phones and arrested 30 suspects who are currently in custody to assist with ongoing investigations.”
Police said the recovered devices will undergo verification to establish their lawful ownership before being returned to their rightful owners.
Investigators are also expected to record statements from the suspects and other relevant witnesses as part of efforts to establish the source of the phones and identify additional individuals involved in the suspected criminal network.
“The recovered phones have been secured pending verification of ownership,” Owoyesigyire said. “Statements will be recorded from the suspects and other relevant witnesses, after which the suspects will be charged and prosecuted in accordance with the law where sufficient evidence exists.”
The operation forms part of a broader crackdown by the Uganda Police Force against mobile phone theft and the illegal trade in stolen property, crimes that have become increasingly common in Kampala and other urban centres.
Police have in recent years intensified intelligence-led operations targeting markets and commercial buildings suspected of serving as distribution centres for stolen phones, warning traders against purchasing devices from unverified sources.
Authorities have also encouraged members of the public to retain proof of purchase and record their mobile phone IMEI numbers to facilitate identification and recovery in the event of theft.
Police said investigations are ongoing and more information will be released as inquiries progress.
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