Police in the Kampala Metropolitan Area have arrested 166 people during coordinated night operations targeting criminal gangs and high-risk areas.
The operations were carried out on 15 February 2026 between 8:00pm and 1:30am, according to Kampala Metropolitan Police spokesperson Racheal Kawala. She said the raids are part of an intelligence-led campaign to curb rising crime in the city and surrounding districts.
In Nsangi Policing Division, officers conducted swoops in Kyengera, Kazinga, Nabaziza, Wakimese, Masanda, Kinaawa, Kikajjo, Kasenge and Nakasozi. The areas were identified as crime hotspots linked to simple robberies, paver attacks, drug abuse and marijuana smoking points. Eighty suspects were arrested in this operation.
Later that night, Kajansi police raided Akright Estate and Kinyarwanda following complaints from residents about phone snatching, theft of vehicle number plates and burglaries. Officers searched unfinished buildings, abandoned structures, construction sites and bars operating beyond authorised hours. Fifteen suspects were arrested and charged.
On the morning of 16 February, the crackdown continued in Nateete Division, where police arrested 71 suspects in Busega Zone 8, Mosoke Zone, Kabawo, Busega Central C and Kibumbiro.
Police said the operations will continue across the metropolitan area to disrupt criminal networks and improve public safety. Residents have been urged to stay alert and share information with security agencies to support crime prevention.
