Police in Iganga District have arrested 13 suspects and recovered suspected stolen property, narcotic substances and counterfeit US dollar notes during an intelligence-led operation in Bukoyo Village, Bulamagi Sub-county, and Busei Village, Nakalama Sub-county.
During the operation, police searched several residences and recovered 32 mobile phones, including 27 smartphones and five button phones, flat-screen televisions, refrigerators, ring lights, Wi-Fi devices, home theatre systems, numerous SIM cards suspected to have been used in fraudulent activities, and suspected counterfeit US dollar notes.
Busoga East Regional Police spokesperson ASP Michael Kasadha said the suspects were arrested to assist with investigations into cases of robbery, housebreaking, theft, fraud commonly known as Kaweleze, and possession of narcotic drugs.
“Some of the suspects have been linked to cases in which young women, including students, are allegedly lured under the pretext of romantic relationships before their phones are stolen,” Kasadha said. He appealed to members of the public who have lost property, including mobile phones, televisions, refrigerators and other electronic devices, to report to Iganga Central Police Station (CPS) with proof of ownership to help identify and reclaim their belongings.
He said claimants should present receipts, mobile phone IMEI numbers or other verifiable evidence to support their claims. Kasadha commended community members who provided timely intelligence that led to the operation, urging the public to continue reporting suspicious activities to the police. He said investigations were ongoing and the suspects would be taken to court upon completion of the investigations.