170 suspects arrested in pre-dawn raid on Wakiso bar

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A total of 170 suspects have been arrested following a disruptive police operation at Unique Bar in Kabawo ghetto, Buwate zone, Kira ward, Kira Division.

The operation carried out in the early hours of Sunday, April 27, 2025, was launched in response to growing complaints from residents about a surge in burglary and theft cases reported over the past three weeks.

According to police, the operation began at exactly 12:00 am and was commanded by the district police commander (DPC) for Kira Division, Julius Tugumenawe, his deputy, Elias Twesigye, among others.

The suspects are currently detained at Kira Division Police Station pending screening, under reference numbers SD 04/27/04/2025, 05/27/04/2025, 06/27/04/2025, 07/27/04/2025, and 08/27/04/2025.

Community members had earlier raised concerns that Unique Bar, owned by an individual identified only as Obed, had become a hideout for criminals, according to police.

The establishment reportedly contains over 40 brothels used by prostitutes to entertain clients and has been associated with open opium smoking and the hosting of kimansulo (strip dance shows) on Wednesdays and Saturdays.

Police noted that criminals had taken advantage of these conditions to hide and plan criminal activities.

"The objectives of the operation were achieved, and it concluded successfully at about 3:00 am," police said in a statement.