Security Sweep Ahead of Uganda Martyrs Day: 45 Suspected Criminals Apprehended in Namugongo

With just six days until the annual Uganda Martyrs Day commemorations, a coalition of security forces has detained 45 individuals suspected of criminal activity in Namugongo and its surrounding areas.

These security agencies, aided by CCTV evidence, have launched operations aimed at apprehending suspected criminals who target pilgrims journeying to Namugongo, especially during the early or late evening hours.

Under the leadership of SP Brighton Ahimbisamukama, 15 suspects were initially captured during operations conducted from Sunday night to Monday morning. Among the apprehended individuals were Syino Michael, Katumba Ashraf alias Cobler (a notorious repeat offender), Esere Hassan, Olowo Abeneko, Kasoma Emmanuel, Safari Yona, Bukenya Mudasiru, Mudu Salim, Sekandi Mustafa, Kikawa Stanley, Kabuye Ronald, Vumbi Enock, Nuwe John, Benjamin Sali, and Godfrey Kyasanku.

SP Ahimbisamukama reported to Kampala metropolitan headquarters that these operations were in response to the recent increase in reported criminal activities. The initial operations targeted Nsawo Zone and Kyaliwajala Ward, both within Namugongo Division, Kira Municipality, Wakiso District.

During these operations, suspected narcotics and burglary tools were seized. “These operations are part of our ongoing efforts to ensure security as we approach the Martyrs Day celebrations,” SP Ahimbisamukama stated in a report to KMP.

Subsequently, last evening, SP Ahimbisamukama, in collaboration with other security agencies, conducted intelligence-driven operations focusing on criminal hideouts in the areas of Kapela, Kimbejja, and Kyaliwajala. This subsequent operation was based on information provided by the previously apprehended suspects.

The total number of apprehended suspects now stands at 45, all presently held at Kira Division police headquarters. ASP Luke Owoyesigyire, the deputy Kampala metropolitan police spokesperson, disclosed that 30 suspects were captured during the latest operations.

Moreover, CCTV camera operators identified two individuals assaulting members of the public. “One of the suspects, Mutebi Shafic, was arrested in Namugongo Agenda 2000 after attacking someone with a stone,” Owoyesigyire remarked. Ahimbisamukama and other security agencies have committed to continuing these operations before, during, and after the Martyrs Day celebrations.

Every year during Martyrs Day, numerous pilgrims fall prey to criminals who ambush them along Northern Bypass, Kira Division Road, Namugongo Road, and various access routes such as Buto–Bweyogerere Road, Mbalwa Road, and Jjanda areas, including Nakiyanja swamp. Typically, these criminals target pilgrims’ bags, which often contain money for transportation and purchasing food at Namugongo, as well as their mobile phones.

Meanwhile, business activities in Namugongo have begun to flourish, with food and merchandise vendors establishing various serving points. Nonetheless, the number of pilgrims remains relatively low, although the hosting diocese of Nebbi is anticipated to make a grand entrance tomorrow.