Police in Nateete have arrested two suspects linked to a string of violent panga robberies in Mutundwe, following a swift early morning operation that foiled an attempted attack on a boda boda rider and his passengers.
The suspects, identified as William Engulu, 37, a private security guard, and Paul Mutabazi, 21, a resident of Kabaawo Zone, were apprehended at around 1:00 a.m. on April 10th during a patrol-led operation in Kweeba Zone, Mutundwe Parish, Rubaga Division.
According to a statement released on April 11th 2026 by the Kampala Metropolitan Police Spokesperson, SP Rachael Kawala, three men armed with pangas and sticks allegedly set up a roadblock and targeted unsuspecting road users.
The gang reportedly intercepted a boda boda rider who was carrying two passengers, forced them to lie down, and began demanding money.
According to a statement issued on April 11th, 2026 by Kampala Metropolitan Police spokesperson SP Rachael Kawala, three men armed with pangas and sticks allegedly set up a roadblock and targeted unsuspecting road users.
The gang reportedly intercepted a boda boda rider carrying two passengers, forced them to lie down, and demanded money.
She said police officers on routine patrol responded swiftly to the scene, disrupted the robbery, and arrested two suspects before they could flee. However, one suspect managed to escape and is currently on the run.
“The two suspects arrested will aid investigations as the manhunt for the remaining suspect and other accomplices continues,’’ SP Kawala stated.
This incident adds to growing concerns over panga-wielding criminal gangs targeting unsuspecting residents and commuters in parts of Kampala, particularly during late-night and early morning hours as seen below.
On April 8th, 2026, Katwe Police dismantled a violent gang operating across Makindye, Salaama, Bunga, and Katwe, following a confession from a key suspect that led to coordinated arrests.
The suspects are accused of staging organized attacks on motorists and pedestrians, using pangas and motorcycles to rob victims before quickly fleeing the scenes with stolen valuables.
In a related operation, on February 18th at around 2:00pm, police carried out arrests linked to a series of violent robberies in Nateete and surrounding areas, where victims were reportedly assaulted using blunt objects and machete-like weapons.
Later the same day, at about 9:00pm, a separate operation in Bweyogerere Central Zone and Wellspring Zone led to the arrest of 18 suspects believed to be part of similar robbery networks involving coordinated attacks and armed assaults.
Police have since urged residents to remain alert and report suspicious activity, as efforts to dismantle emerging criminal networks across the Kampala Metropolitan Areas intensify.
