KASESE, Uganda — Police in Kasese District have arrested 46 suspected members of a notorious criminal gang during an intelligence-led operation aimed at tackling escalating crime in Kasese Municipality.
The operation, conducted at around 6:30 p.m. on August 1, targeted Nyakasanga, Kisanga, Kidodo, and Majengo cells in Central Division following intelligence reports and mounting public complaints over rising criminal activities.
Rwenzori East Regional Police spokesperson Elly Maate said the operation was launched after security agencies analyzed crime trends and discovered that the gang, commonly known as the “Gazz Group,” had regrouped and resumed criminal activities.
According to Maate, the gang has been linked to a series of robberies, burglaries, thefts, and bag-snatching incidents targeting people travelling at night within Kasese Municipality.
“The operation followed an intelligence analysis on the rate of crime and public outcry, which revealed the regrouping of criminal gangs commonly known as the ‘Gazz Group’. The gang had specialised in robberies, burglary, theft and snatching bags from people travelling at night,” Maate said.
He confirmed that all 46 suspects are currently in police custody and are facing charges that include being a common nuisance and possession of opium.
Maate emphasized that similar operations will continue across Kasese Municipality as police intensify efforts to dismantle criminal networks, apprehend remaining suspects, and enhance public safety.
“These operations will continue across the entire Kasese town to minimise crime and bring all remaining wanted suspects to book,” he said.
Police have urged residents to continue cooperating with security agencies by providing timely information that can help prevent crime and ensure the safety of the community.
