By Spy Uganda
Police in the Kampala Metropolitan Area have arrested more than 160 suspects during a series of coordinated security operations aimed at curbing rising criminal activity in city suburbs and surrounding communities.
According to Kampala Metropolitan Police spokesperson Racheal Kawala, the intelligence-led operations were conducted between the night of February 15 and the morning of February 16, 2026, targeting crime hotspots linked to robberies, drug abuse, and theft.
The first operation, carried out by officers from the Nsangi Police Division, took place between 8:00 p.m. and 1:30 a.m. in several areas including Kyengera, Kazinga, Nabaziza, Wakimese, Masanda, Kinaawa, Kikajjo, Kasenge, and Nakasozi. Police focused on marijuana smoking points and blackspots associated with simple robberies, paver attacks, and other criminal activities. A total of 80 suspects were arrested during the exercise.
In a related crackdown, officers from the Kajansi Police Division conducted an operation at about 11:00 p.m. in Akright Estate and Kinyarwanda following complaints from residents about increased phone snatching, number plate theft, burglaries, and related crimes. Police raided suspected hideouts, including unfinished buildings, abandoned structures, construction sites, and bars operating beyond permitted hours, leading to the arrest of 15 suspects who have since been charged.
Meanwhile, another early-morning operation on February 16 by the Nateete Police Division targeted Busega Zone 8, Mosoke Zone, Kabawo, Busega Central C, and Kibumbiro. Authorities arrested 71 suspects during the exercise, all of whom were charged in accordance with the law.
Police say the operations form part of ongoing efforts to disrupt criminal networks and improve public safety within the Kampala Metropolitan Area. Authorities have urged members of the public to continue sharing information with security agencies to support crime prevention initiatives.
