A joint security operation has resulted in the killing of one suspected member of a Masanafu-based gang that has been terrorising pedestrians and motorists along the Northern Bypass. The operation, led by Nateete Division Police Commander (DPC) SP Robert Kacumu, was conducted alongside Operations Commander ASP Kalyango and Crime Intelligence Commander ASP Macklyn Kemigisha. The suspect, an unidentified man believed to be in his early 20s, was shot dead during the crackdown.
SP Kacumu said the operation was extended to Masanafu after security agencies realised that suspects who had evaded arrest during a recent operation in Busega had shifted their activities to the area. The Busega operation was conducted three days earlier, but incidents involving attacks on pedestrians, motorists, and motorcyclists quickly surged in Masanafu.
According to police, shots were fired during the ongoing operation after some of the suspects, reportedly armed with machetes, attempted to attack security personnel. It was during one of these confrontations on Wednesday evening that the suspect was killed.
Residents have welcomed the operation, citing increasing insecurity in the area. Alice Kagoye, a Masanafu resident, praised the police and military for intervening. “We thank the police and soldiers for coming to save us from these thugs. They have made life very difficult for us. You cannot walk freely without fearing that you will be attacked or your bag snatched. You are not safe on foot, and you’re also not safe even on a boda-boda,” Kagoye said.
The Northern Bypass has long been considered one of the most dangerous routes, particularly between 6pm and 10pm. Criminals have reportedly thrown stones, bricks, and logs at vehicles to force drivers to stop before robbing them.
Motorcycle passengers have also been targeted, with victims forcibly pulled off bikes and robbed of their belongings, including mobile phones, sometimes even in broad daylight. Some suspects have also posed as taxi operators to rob unsuspecting passengers.
Kampala Metropolitan Police spokesperson Rachael Kawala confirmed that the operation led to the arrest of 34 suspects, including 10 women. She added that some of the arrested individuals include roadside vendors suspected of collaborating with the criminals operating along the Northern Bypass.