BUSIA, Uganda — Police in Busia District have arrested a 23-year-old man after a police sniffer dog successfully tracked him down following a burglary and theft incident in Sikuda Sub-county.
The suspect, identified as Mulyakyami Banuli, a scrap collector and resident of Abocet Village, was arrested on May 29, 2026, after allegedly breaking into a resident’s home and stealing cash and valuables worth millions of shillings.
According to police, the burglary occurred at around midday while the homeowner was away. Unknown individuals reportedly gained entry into the house by digging behind it before forcing open the door. During the break-in, the thieves made off with a mobile phone, laptop, camera, cash, and several other valuable items.
Upon discovering the theft, the victim reported the matter to police and requested the deployment of a police sniffer dog to help trace the culprits.
Police spokespersons said that immediately after being introduced to the crime scene, the sniffer dog picked up a scent and followed it for nearly one kilometre. The dog first tracked approximately 800 metres to a junction before taking a left turn and continuing for another 200 metres, eventually leading officers directly to the suspect’s residence.
In a rather unusual scene, officers reportedly found Banuli inside his house dancing alone to loud music while using a newly acquired woofer believed to be part of the stolen property.
The suspect was immediately arrested, and a search of his residence yielded significant evidence. Officers recovered UGX 4.6 million hidden under a bed, along with additional cash found in his possession. The total amount of money recovered was UGX 4,889,100.
Police also recovered other items suspected to have been stolen during the burglary.
Banuli is currently in police custody as investigations continue to establish whether he acted alone or had accomplices involved in the crime.
The successful operation has once again highlighted the effectiveness of police sniffer dogs in tracking suspects and helping law enforcement recover stolen property.
