Police in Nateete have launched an intensive crackdown following growing concerns from the public over a rise in motorcycle robberies in the areas of Lungujja, Kosovo, Mutundwe, and Nakawuka Road. For weeks, residents and boda boda riders had complained about attacks carried out by criminals posing as passengers. Their appeals for action were finally answered on 11th December 2025 when police conducted a disruptive operation to restore security and confidence in the affected communities.
During this operation, officers managed to arrest seven suspected motorcycle thieves who had allegedly been terrorizing riders across the area. The suspects were identified as Mwesigwa Denis, Washington Erias, Niwugu Samuel, Nasasira Derick, Medy, Mbabali, and Nsereko Sam. According to police, these suspects had been working as a group, carefully targeting unsuspecting riders by pretending to be genuine customers before striking.
Police also recovered two motorcycles that had been stolen during recent robberies. The recovered bikes, with registration numbers UEW 612H and UMA 471AG, were found along with several tools believed to have been used during the attacks. This recovery has given hope to riders who had lost their means of earning a living in similar criminal incidents.
Preliminary investigations revealed a pattern in the way the group operated. They reportedly stopped riders on the roadside or booked rides as clients, only to attack them midway and take off with the motorcycles. Many boda boda riders in the area had fallen victim to these tricks, making the operation a huge relief for the community.
The seven suspects are currently detained at Lungujja and Wakaliga Police Stations as investigations continue. Police confirmed that a case of aggravated robbery has already been opened and more arrests may follow as the probe expands. Officers believe the crackdown will help prevent more riders from losing their motorcycles—often their only source of income.
In a related operation, police at Central Police Station also arrested a well-known pickpocket identified as Mugabi Hakim, commonly referred to as “Younger.” He was captured on 12th December 2025 around Mutasa Kafeero during a midday police sweep aimed at clearing criminal hotspots in the city. Mugabi is believed to have been operating along Luwum Street for a long time.
Police say these operations are part of a broader effort to reduce crime as the festive season approaches. With increased movement and business activities expected, criminals often take advantage of the season, prompting police to intensify patrols and targeted operations. According to the Kampala Metropolitan Police Spokesperson, SP Kawala Racheal, more actions will continue to ensure residents and visitors remain safe.
Authorities are urging the public to stay alert, report suspicious individuals, and cooperate with law enforcement as efforts to combat crime continue. The police remain committed to restoring peace and order, promising that no criminal activity will be allowed to threaten the safety of Kampala residents during this busy season.
