Police in Nansana have arrested four suspects believed to be part of an organised criminal group targeting bank clients, in what authorities describe as a breakthrough in efforts to curb a wave of robberies in the area.
The arrests, carried out during a series of intelligence-led operations earlier this month, follow multiple complaints from residents who reported being attacked shortly after withdrawing money from banking halls.
According to Luke Owoyesigyire, the suspects were picked up between March 10 and March 14 and are currently being held as investigations continue.
“Preliminary findings indicate that the suspects have been carrying out the attacks while armed with pangas and using boda bodas as a means of transport to facilitate their quick escape from crime scenes,” Owoyesigyire said.
he said the suspects relied on boda bodas to execute the attacks, allowing them to swiftly track targets and flee after the robberies. They were allegedly armed with machetes, which they used to intimidate and subdue victims.
The arrests come in the wake of a recent incident in which a boda boda rider was robbed of cash by unknown assailants shortly after picking up a passenger in the same area, raising fresh concerns about the use of motorcycles in facilitating crime.
“Statements obtained during interrogation link the suspects to several incidents involving attacks on bank clients,” Owoyesigyire said, noting that investigators are working to establish whether the group is connected to a broader criminal network.
Police have since intensified operations to track down other individuals believed to be part of the syndicate.
Police urged the public to take precautionary measures, especially when handling large sums of money. These include avoiding predictable routines, using secure transport options, and where possible, seeking police assistance.
