Police in Kampala have carried out a successful operation to stop the growing theft of motor vehicle parts in areas around Wampewo, Punjan, and the former Electoral Commission stretch. The crackdown follows several complaints from motorists who have recently fallen victim to thieves stealing side mirrors, lamps, grills, and other valuable car accessories.
According to ASP Luke Owoyesigyire, the Deputy Public Relations Officer for Kampala Metropolitan Police, the operation was led by officers from Jinja Road Police Division on the 23rd and 24th of October 2025. It was an intelligence-led effort that specifically targeted areas that had become hotspots for crimes such as phone snatching, bag theft, and robberies from parked vehicles.
During the two-day operation, two suspects were arrested and charged with stealing from motor vehicles. One of the suspects is believed to be a key promoter of the criminal network responsible for organizing the thefts in the city. Police say they are confident that the arrests will help dismantle the group behind the recurring incidents.
Officers also recovered several stolen vehicle parts, including baby mirrors, side mirrors, Toyota Harrier grills, lamps, and other accessories. Most of these items were found in the Kisekka area, a known hub for illegal sale of car parts. Police are now working to trace the rightful owners of the recovered items.
ASP Owoyesigyire confirmed that the operation is still ongoing and more arrests are expected as investigations continue. He encouraged members of the public to stay vigilant, report suspicious activities, and avoid buying used car parts from unverified dealers, as many of them could be stolen.
The Kampala Metropolitan Police have promised to maintain regular patrols and intelligence operations in the affected areas to ensure that motorists can once again park their vehicles without fear of losing parts to thieves.
