Police in Kampala have arrested 35 individuals following a series of thefts at the National Resistance Movement (NRM) presidential nomination event held on September 23, 2025, at Kololo ceremonial grounds.

The suspects, many of whom wore NRM-branded yellow T-shirts emblazoned with President Yoweri Museveni’s image, allegedly exploited the large crowd to steal wallets, mobile phones, watches, and other valuables during the heavily attended event, leaving numerous attendees distressed.

Several victims reported losing essential items and shared their frustration over the disruptions.

Kampala Metropolitan Police Spokesperson Patrick Onyango, on ^26th September 2025, revealed that plainclothes security officers were strategically deployed within the crowd, while CCTV cameras recorded the suspects’ activities.

The combination of surveillance led to the initial apprehension of 44 people, with 35 subsequently charged after nine were released due to insufficient evidence.

Onyango noted that many of the suspects appeared to have acted in a coordinated manner, taking advantage of the large gathering to commit multiple thefts.

“We know campaigns are kicking off next week, and they often attract crowds. We also know that criminals often take advantage of such rallies to commit their crimes, such as theft, phone snatching and others. We want to warn them that we are also prepared to apprehend them,” Onyango said.

Meanwhile, the National Resistance Movement, after President Museveni’s nomination on June 29, 2025, publicly distanced itself from a separate group of criminals who allegedly disguised themselves as party supporters to commit robberies near key city landmarks, such as the National Theatre and the UBC roundabout.

Several people heading to the NRM headquarters on Kyadondo Road were reportedly attacked in broad daylight, losing mobile phones, wallets, cash, and other valuables.

Read Also: NRM Distances Self from Kampala Hooligans in Party Shirts

NRM Secretary General Richard Todwong labelled these individuals as infiltrators with criminal intent and not genuine party supporters.

The September 23 nomination event formally concluded the Electoral Commission’s two-day presidential nomination exercise at the commission’s new venue in Lweza-Lubowa, Wakiso District.

The exercise cleared eight male candidates to contest the January 2026 presidential election. These include incumbent President Yoweri Museveni, running under the NRM banner for a potential seventh term, alongside seven opposition candidates from various parties.

With no female candidate nominated this cycle, the race marks the first time in two decades without female representation on the ballot.

Campaigns are set to begin on September 29, 2025, with candidates expected to focus on key national issues such as the economy, unemployment, and governance.

Security measures are being intensified to ensure peaceful and orderly campaigns, as the country prepares for what promises to be a closely watched election season.