102 suspected robbers have been arrested in joint security operations conducted in response to a recent surge in attacks by criminals targeting pedestrians, motorcycle passengers, and even drivers by throwing logs at them.
The security operations along the Northern Bypass covered the area from Busega to Namboole, with most attacks occurring between 7 pm and 10 pm.
Under the command of Tyson Rutambiika, the Police Commander of Old Kampala Division, the security team carried out operations in the areas of Kawaala and Namungoona, resulting in the arrest of 24 suspects.
At Clock Tower, the Kampala Central Police Station, led by SP Martin Okoyo, conducted operations that led to the arrest of 32 suspects. The police utilized CCTV surveillance to track and monitor the criminal activities of these individuals.
In addition, the Kira Road police station led operations at the Kiwatule, Kyebando, and Bukoto flyovers, which resulted in the arrest of 38 suspects. During these operations, makeshift structures constructed by the criminals near the flyovers were also destroyed by the police.
According to Fred Enanga, the police spokesperson, the suspects were identified and apprehended based on intelligence and evidence. Enanga further stated that the majority of the victims targeted by these criminals were pedestrians, particularly women, who were robbed of their handbags and wallets.
Enanga revealed that some of the criminals were found in possession of mattresses stored in the makeshift structures near the flyovers, all of which were subsequently destroyed.
Last year, five individuals lost their lives in attacks on the Northern Bypass. Subsequently, the police and military conducted operations that resulted in the arrest of over 300 suspects, who were later charged and remanded by the courts. However, within a year, many of them were released on bail or after serving relatively short sentences ranging from three months to a year.