Police in Kampala Metropolitan Area have intensified their night operations to dismantle criminal networks involved in drug abuse, robberies, and public disorder, arresting at least 72 suspects in multiple coordinated raids across the city.
The latest operations were carried out between October 29 and 31 in known criminal hotspots in Nansana, Nakawa, and Old Kampala divisions.
According to Kampala Metropolitan Police spokesperson Luke Owoyesigyire, the move is part of ongoing intelligence-guided efforts aimed at restoring law and order in communities affected by rising crime linked to drugs and gangs. 
“The Police in Kampala Metropolitan Area have continued conducting intelligence-led disruptive operations aimed at combating criminality and restoring public order in known black spots across various divisions,” Owoyesigyire said.
“These operations are part of sustained efforts to dismantle criminal networks engaged in narcotic abuse, robberies, and other unlawful activities.”
On October 30, officers stormed Wamala Kasumba, Karanzi, Kinyarwanda, and Tabba zones in Nansana Division at around 2:00am, arresting eight suspects found with substances believed to be narcotics. The suspects are currently awaiting prosecution.
A similar dawn sweep on October 31 in Thailand, Katogo, and Kago zones of Kinawataka in Nakawa Division led to another 16 arrests. 
Police said the suspects were picked from what they described as established criminal hideouts and will face charges including unlawful possession of suspected narcotics and public nuisance.
The largest operation occurred in Old Kampala Division, where two separate raids in Nakulabye and Kisenyi resulted in the arrest of 48 suspects 24 from each location. Exhibits including suspected narcotic drugs and sharp weapons were recovered.
Owoyesigyire noted that screening of the suspects is ongoing and they will be arraigned in court upon conclusion of investigations.
Beyond enforcement, police say they are boosting their community outreach in crime-prone areas.
On October 29, a community policing campaign was held in Bulabira Kalitunsi, Najjera, focusing on crime prevention, domestic violence, neighborhood vigilance, and electoral-related offences.
Owoyesigyire attributed the success of the operations to community cooperation, urging the public to continue providing actionable intelligence.
“The Kampala Metropolitan Police leadership commends the cooperation of the public and local leaders, whose active participation continues to support our operations,” he said.
“The public is encouraged to remain alert, share credible intelligence, and work closely with Police to ensure continued peace and security.”
Police say the operations will continue as part of efforts to secure Kampala ahead of the festive season and the 2026 electoral period.
