A sweeping joint security operation across parts of Wakiso District and Kampala has resulted in the arrest of 255 suspects, in what authorities describe as a major push to stamp out criminal activity and restore public confidence in safety.
In a statement released on 17th February 2026, the Uganda Police Force confirmed that coordinated raids were carried out a day earlier in several areas identified as crime hotspots. The intelligence-led operations targeted locations in Nansana, Kira Municipality, Kyanja and selected black spots within Kampala’s Central Business District (CBD).
The enforcement exercise was spearheaded by a Joint Task Force operating under the Kampala Metropolitan Police. According to police, the targeted zones had been flagged as gathering points for individuals suspected of involvement in various criminal acts affecting residents and businesses.
The operation in Nansana West Ward, Kyebando and Gganda within Wakiso Sub-county and Nansana Municipality led to the arrest of 65 suspects. In Kira Municipality, which included Kitukutwe Zone, Kiwologoma and Namugongo Nsawo Zone, 38 suspects were apprehended. Another 16 suspects were arrested in Kyanja under the Kira Road Policing Area.
The largest number of arrests was recorded in Kampala’s CBD, where 136 suspects — 134 men and two women — were picked up during operations targeting specific black spots known for suspected criminal activity.
Police said all the suspects were screened and charged with offenses related to possession of suspected narcotic substances and other related crimes. Exhibits believed to be narcotics were recovered during the raids, although authorities did not immediately disclose details about the types or quantities seized.
The suspects are currently being held at various police stations within their respective jurisdictions as they await processing and court appearance.
Authorities explained that the operations were based on intelligence reports and community complaints about increasing incidents of theft, mugging, drug use and other urban crimes. Security teams reportedly conducted surveillance prior to the raids to identify suspected gathering points and individuals believed to be habitual offenders.
Police maintain that dismantling such gathering hubs is critical in disrupting criminal networks and preventing coordinated attacks on members of the public. In busy commercial areas like the CBD, officers say suspects often take advantage of heavy human traffic to carry out crimes before blending back into crowds.
The statement, signed by Luke Owoyesigyire, Deputy Public Relations Officer for Kampala Metropolitan Police, described the operations as successful and part of a broader effort to eliminate criminal elements and enhance public safety.
The Uganda Police Force assured residents that similar enforcement actions will continue in identified hotspots as part of ongoing measures to maintain law and order.
Police also called upon the public to cooperate with security agencies by sharing timely information about suspicious individuals or activities within their communities.
As investigations continue and suspects prepare to appear in court, security officials say they remain committed to ensuring a safer and more secure environment for residents and businesses across Kampala and Wakiso.