Mobile phone theft is currently the most prevalent crime in Kampala and its surrounding areas, according to local authorities. The police report that these thefts are typically carried out by petty criminals exploiting the lucrative second-hand phone market.
The Victims and Criminal Methods
Most victims fall prey to these thieves while inside vehicles, where they often lack the opportunity to pursue the criminals or seek help immediately. Even those who attempt to chase the thieves are often assaulted by the same criminals. Investigations indicate that many of these crimes are committed by groups of delinquents, some of whom are street children armed with knives.
The thieves usually operate in teams, with one member acting as a decoy. This individual, often appearing weak, approaches victims holding smartphones, then snatches the phone and walks away. Meanwhile, the rest of the gang keeps watch. If the victim attempts to chase after the thief, the gang will often retaliate by attacking the person.
Despite the strong presence of both the police and army on the main roads in the city, mobile phone theft remains rampant in the Kampala Metropolitan area. Most of the stolen phones are trafficked to neighboring countries such as the Democratic Republic of Congo and South Sudan.
Notorious Locations for Phone Snatching
The following are some of the most dangerous areas in Kampala where mobile phones are frequently stolen:
- Ben Kiwanuka-Clock Tower-Kibuye Stretch: Taxis often get stuck in traffic for extended periods, and passengers, especially those near open windows, become easy targets for thieves.
- Kibuye-Katwe-Kalitunsi-Clock Tower: This area is notorious for slow-moving traffic and multiple escape routes for criminals.
- Ben Kiwanuka Road (Arua Park): Known for its high activity, especially at night, this area is a hotspot for muggers, particularly near the bus terminal for South Sudan-bound trucks.
- Hoima Road (Namirembe Road): A busy stretch with multiple bus terminals and taxi parks, making it a prime target for criminals, particularly after dark.
- Yusuf Lule Road: Although this is a good road with excellent walkways, it becomes unsafe in the evenings, with muggers targeting pedestrians.
- Entebbe Road (Clock Tower): Traffic congestion allows thieves to snatch phones from pedestrians and vehicle passengers, especially those with lowered windows.
- Nakivubo Road: Despite the presence of police booths, this area remains risky for phone theft, especially near the Nakivubo Channel, where thieves can easily escape.
- Nakivubo Mews: A business hub where traders carry valuables, making them prime targets for criminals.
- Access Road: Although well-lit, this road becomes deserted at night and is often targeted by groups of criminals who overpower their victims.
- Allen Road and Mackay Road: These roads, which flank the New Taxi Park, are known for phone thefts, especially from passengers carrying valuables.
- Kafumbe-Mukasa Road: This road has seen an increase in crime due to the growing night business activity.
- Nkrumah Road: Poorly lit and frequented by lone pedestrians carrying electronics, this road is a common area for thefts.
Skating Ban
The police banned skating on roads, as many skaters use the practice to steal from moving vehicles. Deputy Police Spokesperson Polly Namaye said that road skaters often snatch items such as laptops, phones, bags, and even side mirrors. She emphasized that skaters found on the roads would be arrested and prosecuted due to their involvement in theft.
