WAKISO, Uganda — Police in Nansana have arrested four suspects believed to be part of an organized criminal gang targeting bank clients, marking what authorities describe as a breakthrough in efforts to curb a rising wave of robberies in the area.
The arrests were made during a series of intelligence-led operations conducted between March 10 and March 14, following multiple complaints from residents who reported being attacked shortly after withdrawing money from banking halls.
According to Luke Owoyesigyire, the suspects are currently in custody as investigations continue.
“Preliminary findings indicate that the suspects have been carrying out the attacks while armed with pangas and using boda bodas as a means of transport to facilitate their quick escape from crime scenes,” Owoyesigyire said.
Police say the suspects relied on motorcycles to track potential victims leaving banks before carrying out the attacks. The group allegedly used machetes to intimidate and overpower their targets before robbing them of cash.
The arrests follow a recent incident in which a boda boda rider was robbed of cash by unknown assailants shortly after picking up a passenger in the same area, raising concerns about the use of motorcycles to facilitate crime.
Owoyesigyire added that statements obtained during interrogation have linked the suspects to several incidents involving attacks on bank clients. Investigators are now working to establish whether the suspects are part of a wider criminal network operating in the area.
Police have since intensified operations to track down other individuals believed to be connected to the suspected syndicate.
Authorities have also urged members of the public to take precautionary measures when handling large sums of money. These include avoiding predictable routines, using secure transport options, and, where possible, seeking assistance from the Uganda Police Force.
