Uganda Police Force Dismiss Claims Crime Has Overrun Kampala

The Director of Crime Intelligence at the Uganda Police Force, Christopher Damulira, has dismissed claims that crime has overwhelmed Kampala, insisting that security agencies are making significant progress against criminal networks.

Responding to public concern and media reports, Damulira acknowledged incidents of mugging, particularly at traffic junctions and during prolonged traffic jams, where victims have lost valuables. He also cited murders and break-ins but emphasized that several cases have been successfully resolved.

“It is not true that crime has taken over. Certainly it hasn’t,” Damulira said, noting that complaints raised on social media are being addressed through intensified intelligence-led operations.

Firearms Recovered, Suspects Arrested

Damulira revealed that between January 20 and 24, 2026, security agencies recovered four submachine guns in the Kampala Metropolitan area and arrested nine suspects. A forensic report linked the weapons to 30 aggravated robberies committed between June 2025 and January 2026.

“Since these recoveries were made, Kampala Metropolitan Police has not registered a single gun-related incident,” he said, adding that the suspects have admitted to 12 murders, including that of OC Ntawo, and are currently being processed for court.

Progress on High-Profile Cases

Investigators have also reported breakthroughs in several high-profile cases, including the killing of a student at Uganda Christian University, where a suspect was arrested with key exhibits shortly after police addressed mourners at a vigil in Nalya.

Police also apprehended the main suspect in a double murder at a hotel in Lungujja and recovered a vehicle stolen after the killings. Another case involving TikToker Skyz has been concluded, with the suspect arrested, charged, and exhibits recovered.

Intelligence-Led Operations Intensified

According to Damulira, intelligence-led operations are ongoing across various divisions, with 130 suspects arrested in Kira Division, 32 in Nsangi Division, and 16 in Kira Road Division. The Criminal Investigations Directorate and forensic teams are currently screening suspects for possible prosecution.

He added that targeted strategies are being implemented to curb muggings at traffic lights and during heavy traffic, with similar measures being replicated nationwide.

Addressing Rural Crime

Damulira said the sub-county policing model is being rolled out to combat theft targeting farmers’ produce, which undermines the government’s Parish Development Model aimed at boosting household incomes.

“We are alive to the plight of those who have fallen victims to crime and everything within our means is being done to ensure a peaceful environment for everyone,” he said.

He noted that poverty and unemployment remain key drivers of crime but stressed that these are being addressed through a whole-of-government approach.