Uganda Police Force, in collaboration with sister security agencies, has arrested 64 suspects in a coordinated overnight operation across the Kampala Metropolitan Policing Area, aimed at dismantling criminal networks and restoring public safety.
The intelligence-led raids were carried out between 8:00pm on 2nd March and 2:00am on 3rd March 2026, targeting known criminal black spots where suspects allegedly plan attacks, sell narcotics, smoke opium, and waylay unsuspecting members of the public.
The joint task teams moved simultaneously across multiple divisions, resulting in the arrest of eight suspects in Naguru Go Down, Bank Village, and Naguru Village in Nakawa; 18 arrests in Wanyonyi, Namuyenje, Kyetume, and Nagwa in Mukono District; 36 suspects apprehended in Kiwatule (Waniduuka) and Kamwokya in Kira Road Division; and two individuals arrested in Najjera, Kalintunsi, and Bulabira in Kira Division.
All 64 suspects are currently in custody pending prosecution.
Authorities also recovered suspected narcotic substances and housebreaking tools, which investigators say link some of the suspects to planned criminal activities.
Kampala Metropolitan Police spokesperson SP Rachael Kawala described the operations as intelligence-driven and preventive in nature.
“Our goal is to dismantle these networks before they execute attacks on innocent members of the public. By targeting black spots and criminal gathering points, we are sending a clear message that lawlessness will not be tolerated,” SP Kawala said.
She added that the operation is part of a broader strategy to prevent crime rather than respond after incidents occur.
Residents in affected areas have long complained about nighttime robberies, drug abuse, and gang activity. Many welcomed the raids, noting that the operations bring hope for safer communities.
“We urge members of the public to remain vigilant and continue sharing timely and credible information. Together, we shall keep our communities safe,” the KMP police spokesperson added.
Security agencies confirmed that similar coordinated operations will be sustained across the metropolitan area as part of ongoing efforts to combat urban crime and restore public confidence.
The successful overnight operations highlight the commitment of the Uganda Police Force and its partner security agencies to proactive crime prevention and public safety.
By targeting known criminal hot spots and dismantling networks before crimes occur, authorities aim to restore order, reassure residents, and build safer communities across Kampala, while continued vigilance, intelligence sharing, and sustained enforcement remain crucial to maintaining these gains and curbing lawlessness.
