Police have broken up a violent robbery gang that had been attacking residents across Makindye and nearby areas following a coordinated, intelligence-led operation.
The breakthrough came on April 5 when police arrested a key suspect identified as Olwo, also known as Tom, along Mubaraka Road in Makindye. He was riding a maroon Haojue motorcycle, which immediately drew the attention of officers. After his arrest, investigators questioned him, and the case quickly began to unfold.
During interrogation, Olwo reportedly admitted that he was part of an organised gang that used motorcycles (boda bodas) to move quickly and carry out attacks on both motorists and pedestrians. The gang allegedly used pangas to threaten and overpower victims. Police say the group had been operating in Makindye, Kizungu (Salaama), Bunga, and Katwe.
Acting on this information, officers from Katwe Division launched a follow-up operation. In the early hours of April 8 at around 5:00 a.m., they raided Kapeeke Zone in Kibuye I Parish in a surprise move intended to catch suspects off guard. The operation led to the arrest of nine additional suspects in one sweep, including Bogere Latif, also known as Musoga, and Turyahirwa Ivan, also known as Musiramu.
Police also recovered four motorcycles believed to have been used in the robberies. Investigators suspect some of the bikes were stolen and later used by the gang to speed away after attacks, a tactic commonly used in urban robberies.
According to police, the suspects admitted involvement in several crimes, including stealing Shs350,000 from a motor vehicle in Kizungu and snatching mobile phones along Salaama Road. One suspected stolen phone was also recovered during the operation.
Luke Owoyesigyire said the arrests have significantly disrupted the gang’s operations, noting that the group had been behind a series of violent robberies and relied on fear and speed to execute attacks.
He added that police operations are ongoing and more arrests could follow as they pursue other suspected members of the network.
All suspects remain in custody and will be taken to court upon completion of investigations.
