Police in Kampala Metropolitan have arrested 25 suspected criminals believed to be behind a wave of violent phone-snatching targeting motorists and passengers along the Northern Bypass, especially during heavy traffic hours.
The suspects were rounded up during an intelligence-led operation conducted on Friday, December 5, 2025, around the Double Q section of the bypass — an area notorious for traffic congestion that criminals have exploited to attack helpless road users.
Confirming the arrests, Kampala Metropolitan Deputy Police Spokesperson SP Luke Owoyesigyire said officers caught the suspects in the act.
“During an operation conducted yesterday, 05/12/2025, police officers arrested 25 suspects, who were caught red-handed grabbing phones from victims stuck in traffic around the Double Q area. Additionally, eight motorcycles used by the suspects in the commission of these crimes were impounded,” he said
Police have already obtained video footage showing the suspects violently snatching phones from motorists and passengers, and several witnesses have recorded statements to aid the investigations. All suspects are currently detained at Nateete Police Division.
As the festive season approaches, police say they will intensify deployments along the bypass to curb similar incidents.
“We want to assure the public that deployments during traffic jam hours will continue to enhance the safety of road users,” SP Owoyesigyire said.
He also commended the public for their cooperation and vigilance, urging motorists to remain alert as investigations and prosecution processes continue.
