Police have arrested 124 drivers in a crackdown on drink-driving conducted across nine stations within the Kampala Metropolitan Police (KMP) area.
The operation, dubbed Kawunyemu, was carried out by the Directorate of Traffic and Road Safety in collaboration with KMP on October 18, 2026, as part of efforts to reduce road crashes caused by driving under the influence of alcohol.
In a statement, SP Michael Kananura, the spokesperson for the Directorate of Traffic and Road Safety, said all the 124 drivers had been detained pending court proceedings scheduled for October 19.
Katwe registered the highest number of arrests, with 24 drivers apprehended, followed by Kawempe with 18 and Nansana with 16. Kabalagala and Old Kampala each recorded 14 arrests, while Kampala Central Police Station (CPS) registered 13. Jinja Road accounted for 12 arrests, Kiira Road had seven, and Nsangi recorded six.
Kananura warned motorists against drinking and driving, saying police would continue conducting similar operations to ensure the safety of all road users. “Our message is clear: if you drink, do not drive. Arrange for a sober driver or use a special-hire vehicle to get home safely,” Kananura said.
He added that police would not tolerate motorists who put other people’s lives at risk by driving after consuming alcohol. According to Kananura, the crackdown is part of broader efforts to eliminate dangerous driving on Ugandan roads and prevent avoidable road crashes. He warned that future operations could include publicly identifying motorists arrested for drink-driving. “In subsequent operations, we will have no option but to name and shame those who choose to drink and drive,” he said.
The police have repeatedly urged motorists to observe traffic regulations, avoid reckless driving and make responsible decisions on the road. The latest operation serves as a warning to drivers that enforcement against drink-driving will continue, with police stressing the need for motorists to prioritise their safety and that of other road users.