Police in Mbarara city's northern division have apprehended 16 suspects believed to be part of a criminal gang responsible for a spate of ride-along thefts targeting pedestrians and passengers on motorcycles, commonly known as boda bodas, in various areas including Nyakinengo, Katojo, Migamba, Mwere, and Koranorya-Kikade.

 Police spokesperson Fred Enanga says the suspects, armed with pangas and other sharp implements, reportedly conducted brazen attacks, with smartphones, bags and wallets being their primary targets.

Among those arrested are Ponsiano Bamushangamu, Sulaiman Nsubuga, Jawadu Matovu, and Muhimbise Gaitan, alongside others including the only female suspect, Doreen Tukamushaba.

According to Enanga, the crackdown also resulted in the impounding of six motorcycles allegedly used in the commission of these crimes.

The motorcycles, all Bajaj Boxers, bear registration numbers UFS 884P, UFS 602Q, UFS 260Y, UFT 977Y, UFZ 012U, and UFJ 652D, and are currently held at the offices of Mbarara City North Division.

"The arrest of these criminal elements underscores the joint efforts of security and intelligence agencies in combating violent crime within Mbarara City and neighboring districts. However, authorities emphasize that the hunt for other accomplices still at large remains ongoing" Enanga said during the joint weekly briefing at Police headquarters in Kampala.