A recent crackdown led by the police in Arua city resulted in the arrest of 32 individuals suspected of criminal activities. The operation, which was intelligence-led, targeted various areas including Ediofe mission, Driver’s Corner, Air Japan, Adriko cell, Lumumba cell, Arua primary area, and Upper Bibia. During the operation, law enforcement officials seized an array of weapons and illicit substances, highlighting the gravity of the situation.
Inside the Arua Central Police Station, a display of confiscated items served as a stark reminder of the dangers posed by armed criminals in the area. Hammers, blunt knives, pliers, clubs, and drugs concealed in polythene bags were among the exhibits, indicative of the tools used for breaking into homes and businesses. According to police reports, these implements are commonly employed by criminals in their illicit activities.
The sweep also resulted in the confiscation of seven numberless motorcycles, believed to have been used in various criminal activities. West Nile Police region spokesperson Josephine Angucia stated that the suspects will face charges related to robbery, possession of marijuana, possession of dangerous weapons, and possession of stolen property. This crackdown comes in response to mounting public complaints regarding robbery cases in Arua city.
Angucia emphasized the necessity of the operation, citing public outcry over incidents of property theft facilitated by criminals using unregistered motorcycles. The arrests were made with the aim of addressing these concerns and restoring security within the community. Following their detention at the Arua Central Police Station, the suspects will undergo legal proceedings, with their case files to be reviewed by the Resident State Attorney of Arua City.
The police operation against criminal gangs is expected to continue until instances of theft and robbery in the city are significantly reduced. Reports of gangsters targeting travelers, particularly snatching phones and handbags, have become distressingly common in Arua. Residents such as Aliyah Amina, who fell victim to theft earlier in the year, expressed relief at the intervention of law enforcement.
Julius Adeti, a boda boda rider operating in Arua city, welcomed the crackdown on criminal activity and urged for sustained efforts in combating the proliferation of gangs.
Police sould senstaizing people and addressing individual of disadvantage of mob justice.