Three arrested over robbery in Lira as, suspected stolen phones recovered in operation

Lira City, Uganda: Police have arrested three suspects in connection with a violent robbery that left a woman seriously injured in Starch Factory Cell, Lira City West Division, and uncovered what investigators believe is a wider network dealing in stolen electronic devices.

The robbery occurred on June 17, 2026, when the victim was attacked by a group of young men who assaulted her before robbing her of a mobile phone and cash. The incident formed part of a series of violent crimes that had heightened security concerns in Lira City.

According to Police spokesperson ACP Kituuma Rusoke, the breakthrough came after the victim identified one of her attackers, prompting intelligence-led operations that led to the arrest of Emuna Joshua, 18, and Acar Gerald, also known as Jerry, 18.

Kituuma said the suspects confessed during interrogation and provided investigators with information linking them to a broader criminal gang operating in the area.

The suspects also disclosed that the stolen mobile phone had been sold to Ocen Bashir, whom police identified as a dealer in stolen electronic devices.

Following the information obtained from the suspects, police arrested Ocen Bashir and searched his shop, where officers recovered several items suspected to have been stolen, including mobile phones, phone batteries, computer hard disks, and assorted tools believed to have been used in criminal activities

These (recovered property) have been secured as exhibits while investigations continue.

Police say efforts are underway to trace other members of the suspected criminal gang and establish the ownership of the recovered electronic devices.

“Investigations are ongoing to trace other gang members and verify ownership of the recovered property. Members of the public who have lost electronic devices are advised to report to Lira City CPS for possible recovery,” he noted.

ACP Kituuma also warned individuals involved in purchasing or trading in stolen property that they risk prosecution under the law.

“Police strongly warn individuals involved in buying and selling stolen phones that they will face the full force of the law,” he said, adding that investigations into the robbery and the suspected network dealing in stolen electronics remain ongoing.