Ten arrested in Kabalagala operation over robbery, drug use

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Ten suspects have been arrested in an early Sunday morning intelligence-led operation targeting black spots in Lukuli and around the Orthodox Eritrean Church, following a surge in complaints about street robberies in the area.

The operation, conducted at around 6:00am on Sunday (July 20 2025), was led by Kabalagala Division operations officers.

According to Kampala Metropolitan Police deputy spokesperson Luke Owoyesigyire, the crackdown followed multiple reports of simple robbery, particularly targeting people commuting to and from work, as well as members of the Eritrean Orthodox community returning from early morning prayers.

“The suspects had been waylaying residents and robbing them of their belongings. The operation was aimed at restoring public safety in these identified black spots,” Owoyesigyire said.

Those arrested have been identified as Lino Ochen Mulondo, Hamuza Othieno, Anthony Bogere, Muhammad Ssebufwawo, Bonny Muhowani, Hamudan Ssonko, Godwin Bwambale, Ashiran Masereka, Hilary Niwaha, and Hamuza Ahabwe.

“All ten suspects were found in possession of narcotic drugs and were caught smoking at the time of arrest,” Owoyesigyire added.

They are currently detained at Kabalagala Police Division and have been charged with possession of narcotic drugs and smoking prohibited substances.

Police say the suspects will be arraigned in court on Monday.

The deputy spokesperson said similar operations will continue across the city to curb the rising incidents of street crime.