UPDF declares war on motorists with numberless, unlicensed vehicles
In the crackdown, announced on Tuesday, September 15th, suspected civilian-registered vehicles will also be searched.
Colonel Chris Magezi, the Acting Director, Defence Public Information. (File photo)
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The Uganda People's Defence Forces has launched a major operation in Greater Kampala Metropolitan Area and several other districts to impound numberless, unregistered or unlicensed motor vehicles.
In the crackdown, announced on Tuesday, September 15th, suspected civilian-registered vehicles will also be searched.
"Any vehicle in possession of military stores such as military jackets, whether displayed on driver’s seats or not, and other military paraphernalia will be impounded. The drivers or owners of the vehicles will be arrested and court-martialed in accordance with the UPDF Act 2025," Colonel Chris Magezi, the Acting Director, Defence Public Information, warned in a public announcement.
UPDF statement in full:
Public Notice: Operation Tekeleza Sheria Kampala, Tuesday, September 15, 2026
Military Police Brigade, while working and coordinating with the Uganda Traffic Police, has, with immediate effect, commenced operations within the Greater Kampala Metropolitan Area and the country at large to impound numberless, unregistered or unlicensed motor vehicles.
The operation will also target vehicles with covered number plates, some of which belong to members of the security forces and MDAs. The drivers of such vehicles will be arrested and prosecuted in courts of law for gross violation of traffic regulations.
Also to be arrested are members of the security services who fail to adhere to traffic regulations, including driving without valid driving permits/licenses.
Civilian registered vehicles found in possession of military stores such as military jackets, whether displayed on driver’s seats or not, and other military paraphernalia will be impounded. The drivers or owners of the vehicles will be arrested and court-martialed in accordance with the UPDF Act 2025, as amended.
This is therefore to notify the public about the ongoing operation and to appeal for their usual cooperation and support. The operation will proceed in earnest until further notice.
CHRIS MAGEZI
Colonel
Acting Director Defence Public Information
MODVA/UPDF