ACP Rusoke Kituuma, the new Press and Public Relations Officer, Uganda Police Force held a Press Conference on June 3, 2024 and reported that the Flying Squad unit of the Uganda Police Force executed a targeted operation against motor vehicle thefts across several areas including Bunamwaya, Kawempe – Kalerwe, Mukono, and Ndeeba.
Arrests and Recoveries
The operation resulted in the apprehension of 13 suspects:
- Musinguzi Julius
- Ssemyalo Rashid
- Kasibante Stephen
- Kibuuka Siraji
- Kyazze Sammy
- Bukenya Bashir
- Mukasa Wamala
- Kyazze Kennedy
- Wandera John
- Lubega Jerry
- Nabuyondo Teddy
- Bijumbuko Paul
- Anguzo Moses
Vehicles Recovered
The Flying Squad recovered the following stolen motor vehicles:
No. | Vehicle Reg. No. | Vehicle Model | Color |
---|---|---|---|
1 | UAP 042N | Noah | Grey |
2 | UBD 592G | Probox | Grey |
3 | Spacio | – | Grey |
4 | SSD 992BC | Vitz | Grey |
5 | UAX 108E | Noah | Grey |
6 | UAX 827P | Isuzu Forward | – |
7 | UAG 608C | Isuzu Forward | – |
Specific Cases
Among the recovered vehicles, the Noah registered as UAP 042N was reported stolen from Kumi, originally under registration number UAS043Z. The theft was investigated by Kumi Police Station under case reference CRB 365/2024, leading to the arrest and remand of Amoit George and Taika Godfrey at Kumi Prisons.
The Isuzu Forward, registered as UAX 827P, was reported stolen from Kakumiro District, having originally been registered as UBN 736K.
Impact of the Operation
The Flying Squad’s successful operation has disrupted criminal activities attributed to several gangs operating in Central and Western Uganda. One such gang, allegedly led by Wandera John, has been significantly affected with its leader now in custody.
Ongoing Investigations
Authorities suspect a group involved in the theft and illicit sale of lorries in Kampala and the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC). Those currently in custody for further investigation include Kyazze Kennedy, Lubega Jerry, Nabuyondo Teddy, Bijumbuko Paul, Anguzo Moses, and Ssekyanda Drake.
Police Advisory
In light of these incidents, the Uganda Police Force advises vehicle owners to employ robust security measures such as installing car trackers to enhance the security of their vehicles.