At least 62 suspects were arrested across Kampala Metropolitan Area during New Year celebrations, police have said, as security agencies moved to curb crime during the festive period.
Kampala Metropolitan Police spokesperson Racheal Kawala said the arrests were made in various locations following intensified security operations during New Year festivities.
“We have arrested over 50 suspected criminals during New Year festivities in various areas in Kampala,” Kawala said.
According to police, the highest number of arrests was recorded in Old Kampala, where 30 suspects were picked up, followed by Matugga with 15 arrests.
Ten suspects were arrested in Nansana, four in Kasangati, two in Entebbe and one in Mukono.
Police said some of the suspects were arrested for theft-related offences during public celebrations.
“Some of these were pocket pickers during various festivities within Kampala Metropolitan,” Kawala said.
In addition to the arrests, police confirmed two fatalities recorded on the night of December 31, linked to road traffic incidents.
“Two people were confirmed dead during the 31st eve. One of the victims was riding a bicycle and was knocked dead by an unidentified vehicle whose driver was overspeeding,” Kawala said.
She added that investigations have been launched to trace the driver responsible for the fatal crash.
“We have launched investigations to identify the driver and the type of the car involved,” she said.
