Police in Kampala have arrested seven suspects in connection with the alleged theft and dealing in motor vehicle parts in Nateete and recovered several items believed to have been stolen.
The arrests followed public concern over increasing cases of theft and vandalism of motor vehicles in the area, particularly Toyota Harrier vehicles. The concern intensified after a video circulated on social media showing a motorist complaining about vandalism targeting the vehicles.
According to Kampala Metropolitan Police spokesperson ASP Luke Owoyesigyire, police conducted an intelligence-led operation on September 15, 2026, resulting in the arrest of Jjuko Muhammad, who was suspected of involvement in the theft of motor vehicle parts.
“Following his arrest and interrogation, Jjuko Muhammad led police to six additional suspects who were arrested on September 17, 2026,” Owoyesigyire said.
The additional suspects have been identified as Agaba Gabriel, Kushemererwa Justine, Muwanguzi Daniel, Ntege Said, Wasswa Frank and Lubega Ivan.
Police searched shops linked to the suspects in Kisekka Market and recovered various motor vehicle parts believed to have been stolen. The recovered items have been documented and are being held as exhibits as investigations continue.
Owoyesigyire said preliminary investigations indicate that the suspects had allegedly been involved in buying and dealing in stolen motor vehicle parts for a prolonged period. Police also recovered several side mirrors bearing vehicle registration numbers, which investigators believe could help trace the affected vehicles and their owners.
The registration numbers include UAS 480J, UBK 447G, UA 086DB, UBM 991L, UAR 213K and UBG 969D. “The recovered items have been documented and exhibited, while the suspects remain in police custody as investigations continue,” Owoyesigyire said.
Police have appealed to members of the public who may recognize the recovered parts or whose vehicle registration numbers appear on the exhibits to come forward and provide information to investigators. Police said further details will be released as investigations progress.