Police target criminal hotspots, arrest over 600 suspects
“We are particularly concerned about the rise in drug use among youths. Local leaders and parents must work with us to address this growing challenge,” reads the report seen on October 7, 2025.
Police spokesperson Rusoke Kituuma confirmed that several suspects were found with marijuana and narcotics, which will form part of the evidence in court. (Credit: Mpalanyi Ssentongo)
KAMPALA - Police in the Kampala Metropolitan Area are holding at least 613 suspects linked to various crimes, following intensified operations targeting drug users, street muggers, and criminal gangs.
According to the Police report seen by New Vision Online, the crackdown is part of an ongoing operation to dismantle organized criminal networks across urban centers.
“We are particularly concerned about the rise in drug use among youths. Local leaders and parents must work with us to address this growing challenge,” reads the report seen on October 7, 2025.
The suspects are being held at various Police stations across the city as investigations continue. Those found innocent after screening will be released, while others will face prosecution.
The operation follows recent reports of staged arrests by officers in Budo, Nakasozi, where rogue personnel allegedly detained youths and fabricated evidence against them. Police have since launched an internal inquiry into the allegations.
Earlier, Police and the army arrested 65 suspects in the Kampala city suburbs of Kyaliwajala, Naalya, Kasubi, and Kireka recovering drugs and other exhibits. The remains of a young child were also discovered during the raid.
Police spokesperson Rusoke Kituuma confirmed that several suspects were found with marijuana and narcotics, which will form part of the evidence in court.
He said operations would continue across identified hotspots to ensure public safety and order.
“Our goal is not mass arrests but to dismantle criminal networks. Those who offend the law will face justice,” he stressed.