Written By | Peter Luzinda
Arrested gang
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Kampala
Police in Katwe Division have successfully dismantled a notorious gang of panga-wielding robbers that had been terrorising several suburbs in Kampala, following a swift intelligence-led operation.
The breakthrough came after weeks of surveillance on a group suspected of carrying out multiple violent robberies in areas including Makindye, Kizungu in Salaama Parish, Bunga, and Katwe.
On April 5, 2026, officers arrested the first suspect, identified as Olwo, also known as Tom, along Mubaraka Road in Makindye Division. He was found riding a maroon Haojue motorcycle with registration number UMA 979 HA. During interrogation, the suspect reportedly confessed to being part of an organised criminal gang that specialised in robberies using pangas and motorcycles for quick getaways.
Acting on intelligence obtained from the arrest, police launched a targeted early-morning operation on April 8 at around 5:00 am in Kapeeke Zone, Kibuye I Parish, Makindye Division. The raid resulted in the arrest of nine more suspects, including Bogere Latif, alias Musoga, and Turyahirwa Ivan, alias Musiramu.
Authorities also impounded four motorcycles believed to have been used in the commission of the crimes. Some of the motorcycles are suspected to have been stolen.
Some of the impounded Motorcyles
The suspects have reportedly confessed to several incidents, including the theft of Shs350,000 from a motor vehicle in Kizungu Zone, Salaama Parish, as well as multiple mobile phone snatching cases along Salaama Road. One stolen mobile phone was recovered during the operation.
Preliminary investigations indicate that the gang had been operating for some time, primarily targeting cash and electronic devices while relying on speed and intimidation to evade arrest.
All ten suspects are currently in police custody and are expected to be arraigned in court once investigations are completed.
Police have reassured the public of their commitment to intensifying operations against criminal gangs to restore safety and security across Kampala’s suburbs.
Torch Media Africa
