By Jamillah Kemigisa
In a major operation against motorcycle theft and the illegal spare parts trade, police in Masaka have arrested ten suspects and recovered about 40 motorcycles believed to have been stolen.
The crackdown is part of ongoing efforts to combat the rising cases of motorcycle theft across the region.
According to the Southern Regional Police Spokesperson, Twaha Kasirye, the operation targeted known hotspots including Nakayiba, Kayirikiti, Villa Road, and Nyendo, where stolen motorcycles and dismantled parts are often trafficked.
“The operation was strategic and focused on areas notorious for motorcycle-related crimes,” Kasirye said. “We are determined to ensure that those involved in these theft rings face the full force of the law.”
Police reports show that the suspects were part of a syndicate that dismantled stolen motorcycles for spare parts, making recovery and tracking difficult. The recent operation not only led to the recovery of stolen bikes but also sent a strong warning to criminals taking advantage of the high demand for motorcycles in urban and peri-urban areas.
Residents have welcomed the police action, citing a surge in motorcycle theft incidents in recent months. Local leaders have urged continuous vigilance and community cooperation to help security agencies curb such crimes.
Police have confirmed that investigations are still underway and efforts are ongoing to trace other stolen motorcycles linked to the group.
Motorcycle theft remains a persistent challenge in Masaka and other parts of Uganda. Many of the stolen bikes are either sold intact or dismantled for spare parts. Despite stepped-up surveillance and operations in recent years, the crime continues to affect riders in both urban and rural areas, prompting stronger enforcement and public awareness campaigns.
