Kampala police arrested two young men armed with a panga and a knife during a midnight patrol in Wandegeya, raising fresh concerns about youth involvement in crime in the city.
The suspects, 18-year-old Omirambe Nizara and 23-year-old Daniel Ochom, both residents of Kawempe Division, were apprehended on 18th March 18, 2026, at around 12:23 a.m. near Nyumbani Hotel.
In a statement released on 19th March 2026 by ASP Luke Owoyesigyire, the Kampala Metropolitan deputy police spokesperson, the two were part of a larger group of approximately six youths who fled upon spotting officers during a routine patrol.
“Our officers encountered a group of about six youths. When they saw the police, they ran, but we managed to apprehend two of them,” ASP Owoyesigyire stated.
He revealed that a search of one suspect uncovered a panga and a knife hidden on his person, raising concerns about potential criminal intent.
“Given the dangerous weapons the suspects were carrying at that late hour, investigations are ongoing to determine their exact intentions,” he added.
The incident has alarmed residents and observers, who say it reflects deeper social challenges, including unemployment and peer influence among urban youth.
“When you see people as young as 18 moving around at night with weapons, it is worrying. It shows something is not right,” the Kampala Metropolitan deputy police spokesperson, said.
Security experts note that such cases are part of a growing pattern linked to urban pressures and socioeconomic challenges in densely populated areas.
The suspects are currently detained at Wandegeya Police Division, and their case file will be submitted to the Resident State Attorney for legal guidance.
As investigations continue, attention is now turning to how authorities and communities can address the root causes driving youth into crime in Kampala.
