Police in Katwe have recovered 120 suspected stolen iPhones and arrested four suspects following an investigation into the theft of a police officer’s mobile phone, uncovering what investigators believe is a network dealing in suspected stolen Apple devices and spare parts.
The investigation began after a police officer’s mobile phone was stolen on July 16, 2026, while he was deployed on duty at Top City Plaza in Kisenyi Cell, Kampala.
According to police, detectives arrested the first suspect, Mugabi Richard, on July 18 at about 3:00 a.m. from his residence in Kakajo, Kisenyi Cell. During interrogation, Mugabi reportedly confessed to stealing the officer’s phone while the officer was resting inside a vehicle.
Police said the suspect further disclosed that he handed the stolen phone to an accomplice, who later sold it for UGX 900,000 to Mugerwa Juma, the proprietor of a mobile phone retail shop at Cooper Complex in Kampala. The stolen phone was subsequently recovered.
Acting on the information obtained, police mounted an operation at Mugerwa Juma’s shop on July 21. A search of the premises led to the recovery of seven functioning iPhones, five iPads, three laptops, phone resetting machines, a microscope, and a large quantity of iPhone spare parts.
Mugerwa Juma was arrested at the scene, and a subsequent search of his motor vehicle resulted in the recovery of 120 suspected stolen iPhones, ranging from the latest iPhone 17 Pro Max models to earlier versions.
The four suspects arrested have been identified as Mugabi Richard, Mwesigwa Frank, Mutesi Sumaya, and Mugerwa Juma.
Kampala Metropolitan Police spokesperson SP Rachael Kawala said preliminary investigations indicate that the suspects were allegedly involved in the trade of suspected stolen iPhones and spare parts purchased from individuals operating on the streets of Kampala and its surrounding areas.
“We have recovered 120 suspected stolen iPhones and arrested four suspects in connection with this case. Investigations are ongoing to establish the rightful owners of the recovered devices, identify other members of the criminal network, and ensure that all those involved are brought to justice. We appeal to members of the public who have recently lost iPhones to report to Katwe Police Station with proof of ownership so that the recovered devices can be identified and returned to their rightful owners,” SP Rachael Kawala said.
Police said investigations are continuing as detectives pursue additional suspects believed to be linked to the illegal enterprise.