Police hunting for thugs who raided Mukono businessman’s home
Nandawula revealed that in the chaos, the thugs stole sh5 million in cash and seven mobile phones, leaving the home in disarray as furniture was overturned and belongings scattered.
Deputy police spokesperson Diana Nandawula addressing the press at the Naguru Police Headquarters. (File/Alfred Ochwo/New Vision)
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Late Sunday night, a group of panga-wielding thugs descended upon the home of a businessman in Goma, Mukono district, shattering the calm that had settled over the neighbourhood.
The attackers forced their way through the gates and scaled the perimeter wall fence into the residence.
Whereas they reported hearing sounds of breaking glass and metallic glint of what is believed to be pangas, neighbours remained behind locked doors, gripped by fear as the situation unfolded.
On Monday (March 23), deputy police spokesperson Diana Nandawula said, the victims, a businessman and his family, were caught off guard as the intruders ransacked rooms in search of valuables.
The assailants held the occupants hostage, issuing threats and demanding money in a tense and dangerous ordeal.
Addressing the media at Police Headquarters in Naguru, Nandawula revealed that in the chaos, the thugs stole sh5 million in cash and seven mobile phones, leaving the home in disarray as furniture was overturned and belongings scattered.
Police have since launched a manhunt for the suspects, saying they have identified some and have good clues that will lead to their capture.
Over 500 arrested in crackdown
Meanwhile, Police have arrested more than 500 suspects in the past week during intelligence-led operations, even as authorities praised Ugandans for maintaining peace during the Idd celebrations.
Nandawula said the nationwide celebrations were largely calm and orderly.
She noted that the success was a result of coordinated efforts between security agencies and the public, with deployments focusing on mosques, entertainment centres, and major roads to manage increased movement.
Police intensified operations targeting criminal elements, particularly in Kampala and surrounding districts.
The most recent crackdown was conducted along the Northern Bypass in areas such as Busega and Masanafu following public complaints of muggings, bag snatching, and related petty crimes.
A total of 78 suspects were arrested during the operation, with exhibits including suspected narcotics, knives, and other dangerous implements recovered.
"In the past week alone, we have arrested over 500 suspects in various intelligence-led operations. Some have already appeared in court, while others are still under investigation," Nandawula said.
Police say the operations will continue as part of broader efforts to disrupt criminal networks and sustain public safety beyond the festive period.