KAMPALA, Uganda — Uganda Police have credited increased public cooperation and intensified security operations for a notable decline in crime across the Kampala Metropolitan area.
Speaking on the recent developments, Deputy Police Spokesperson Diana Nandawula said the progress follows a series of community-based operations aimed at dismantling criminal networks, particularly those involved in urban theft.
According to police, more than 500 suspects were arrested during last week’s operations, a figure described as comparatively lower than previous crackdowns and indicative of a shrinking pool of active offenders. Among the key operations was a targeted crackdown along the Northern Bypass, where 78 suspects linked to phone and bag snatching were apprehended.
Nandawula commended members of the public for their continued support, noting that timely information sharing and cooperation with security agencies have played a critical role in identifying and eliminating criminal elements.
Police further highlighted that the detention and remand of suspects have contributed significantly to reducing crime levels by limiting the movement of repeat offenders within communities.
However, authorities noted that isolated incidents still occur. An example cited was a recent explosion involving a scrap dealer in Mbale, which left four people injured and remains under investigation by the police bomb squad.
In addition to crime prevention, police raised concerns over changing road safety trends within the metropolitan area. Officials reported that passengers have now become the most affected group in road traffic crashes, largely due to speeding and reckless overtaking by drivers.
As the Easter season approaches, traffic police have intensified operations along major highways to enforce road safety regulations and ensure compliance among motorists.
Police have urged the public to remain vigilant and continue working closely with security agencies to sustain the gains made in reducing crime.
