At least 99 suspects have been arrested in a sweeping crackdown across Kampala Metropolitan Area, following three intelligence-led operations targeting drug abuse and criminal activity in key urban hotspots, police have confirmed.
According to Deputy Kampala Metropolitan Police Spokesperson Luke Owoyesigyire, the joint operations were carried out between June 11 and 12, 2025, in Kira Division (Wakiso District), Central Police Station Kampala (KMP South), and Mukono District.
“We have arrested over 90 individuals in targeted areas notorious for drug abuse, petty crime, and robberies. These operations were intelligence-led and executed in collaboration with the UPDF, Crime Intelligence Units, and local leaders,” Owoyesigyire stated.
On June 11, police conducted a raid in Najjera, Bulindo, and Shimon within Kira Division, Wakiso District, leading to the arrest of 30 suspects.
The individuals, most of whom were found in known ghettos, were allegedly involved in opium and marijuana abuse and linked to house break-ins and minor robberies.
“Exhibits of narcotic substances, particularly opium, were recovered from these locations,” Owoyesigyire noted. “The suspects are currently detained at Kira Police Station as investigations and screening continue.”
A large-scale night operation on June 11 across central Kampala saw 60 adult males arrested. The operation covered notorious hotspots including William Street, Wilson Road, Top Pub, Nakasero, Old Taxi Park, Cooper Complex, and Shoprite.
“These suspects were found loitering, abusing narcotic substances, and reportedly engaging in crimes like phone and bag snatching,” Owoyesigyire said. They are currently held at CPS Kampala, awaiting legal processing.
In the early hours of June 12, police struck again in Kiwala Village, Nama Sub-County, Mukono District.
The joint operation resulted in the arrest of nine suspects found in possession of opium. Authorities believe the group has been behind several robbery incidents in the area.
“All nine suspects are in custody at Mukono Police Station and will be presented in court soon,” said Owoyesigyire.
Police say the series of coordinated crackdowns are part of an ongoing effort to restore order and reduce criminal activity in urban centers.
Owoyesigyire emphasized that community support is vital to sustaining the momentum.
“We urge the public to stay vigilant and report any suspicious activity. These operations will continue as we work to rid Kampala and surrounding districts of criminal elements,” he said.
Kampala Metropolitan Police reaffirmed its commitment to intelligence-led policing and community collaboration in curbing crime.
