Gulu city residents accuse security of arresting 'wrong people’ in crackdown

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Several residents of Gulu city say a recent security operation targeting suspected members of the Aguu group, saw the Police arrest innocent individuals while leaving key insecurity perpetrators at large.

In interviews conducted by Radio Rupiny on March 2, 2026, several city dwellers said the crackdown failed to address the root causes of insecurity linked to the Aguu group. Instead, they claim, many non-criminals were rounded up during the operation.

Some residents, who spoke on condition of anonymity for fear of reprisal, expressed frustration over the continued instability.

A business owner along Cemetery Road said recent clashes between Aguu members and vendors have severely disrupted business, noting that several affected traders have yet to return.

Another resident acknowledged that the operation brought temporary calm but alleged that suspected ringleaders remain free.

According to the source, these individuals are frequently seen at a popular miraa-vending site on Acholi Road during the day before allegedly directing youths to cause disturbances in the evening, particularly around Cemetery Road, while avoiding direct involvement to escape arrest.

Across the city there is persistent concern about looting and burglary, especially in areas such as Holy Rosary.

Residents argue that despite the mass arrests, criminal activity linked to the group continues.

Community members have urged security agencies to intensify surveillance on small drinking establishments, claiming suspects often hide in such places during patrols and resurface after officers leave to harass residents.

According to a recent Police report, the intelligence-led operation resulted in the arrest of 113 suspects who were presented before court last week and remanded to various government prisons across the Acholi sub-region.

Police data shows that 47 suspects were arrested from Gulu central division, 43 from Gulu east division, 21 from Gulu west division, 11 from Amuru district, and eight from Nwoya district, bringing the total to 113.

However, Aswa west Police region spokesperson David Ongom Mudong assured the public that security operations will continue in a bid to eliminate criminal elements and restore lasting calm in Gulu city.