NANSANA, Uganda — Police in Nansana arrested 15 suspected criminals in an early morning operation Tuesday aimed at dismantling gangs terrorizing residents of Nansana Municipality, authorities said.
The intelligence-led operation, conducted between 1 a.m. and 5:30 a.m., targeted the Katooke A, Katooke B, Kisimu, and Jinja Kalori areas within Wamala Parish, Nabweru Subcounty, according to Kampala Metropolitan Police spokesperson SSP Patrick Onyango.
The joint operation involved police officers, local leaders, and community vigilante groups working together to address issues including marijuana smoking, petty robbery, and organized crime in the affected areas.
Onyango said in a statement that the suspects were apprehended in zones known for harboring criminal elements.
“Some of the suspects were arrested with the intention to commit a felony. Two of them were taken to court on existing charges of theft and simple robbery,” Onyango said.
He added that the remaining individuals are being screened in collaboration with local leaders to determine their involvement in any illegal activities.
Onyango credited community involvement for the operation’s success, noting that residents provided crucial intelligence that helped security forces identify and locate the suspects.
“We commend the community for their vigilance. Their cooperation enabled us to carry out this operation smoothly,” Onyango said.
The operation is part of ongoing police efforts to disrupt criminal networks that have been exploiting the Easter season to commit crimes.
“We shall continue with such operations to ensure the safety and security of our people,” Onyango affirmed.
Police urged residents to remain vigilant and continue sharing information to aid in the fight against crime.
