Watchers have averred that this rise in criminal activity is driven by a combination of high youth unemployment, economic pressure, and limitations in law enforcement capacity.
This has prompted Police in the Kampala Metropolitan Area to swing into action and arrest more than 160 suspects following a series of coordinated night operations targeting crime hotspots across several divisions.
According to Kampala Metropolitan Police spokesperson Rachael Kawala, the disruptive operations were conducted on February 15, 2026, between 8:00pm and 1:30am as part of ongoing efforts to combat urban crime.
“In a continued effort to combat crime in the Kampala Metropolitan Area, police conducted coordinated disruptive operations on 15th February 2026 between 2000hrs and 0130hrs,” Kawala said.
She noted that officers from Nsangi Policing Division raided several areas including Kyengera, Kazinga, Nabaziza, Wakimese, Masanda, Kinaawa, Kikajjo, Kasenge and Nakasozi.
“The operations targeted identified hotspots, marijuana smoking points, and blackspots associated with simple robberies, paver attacks, drug abuse, and other criminal activities,” she explained.
Police said a total of 80 suspects were arrested during the Nsangi operations.
In a separate operation the same night, Kajansi police conducted raids at about 11:00pm in Akright Estate and Kinyarwanda following complaints from residents.
Kawala said the community had raised concerns over rising incidents of phone snatching, theft of number plates, burglaries and related crimes.
“The operation focused on identified blackspots and criminal hideouts, including unfinished and abandoned structures, construction sites, and bars operating beyond permitted hours,” she said.
Fifteen suspects were arrested in Kajansi and have since been charged.
Meanwhile, on the morning of February 16, police in Nateete carried out another operation covering Busega Zone 8, Mosoke Zone, Kabawo, Busega Central C and Kibumbiro.
“A total of 71 suspects were arrested and charged accordingly during the disruptive operations,” Kawala added.
Police say the crackdown will continue across the metropolitan area, especially in locations flagged by the public as crime-prone.
“We urge members of the community to continue sharing information with police to support crime prevention efforts,” Kawala said.
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