By Mukembo Wilfred
In a targeted operation on June 3, 2024, Uganda’s Flying Squad unit executed raids aimed at curbing motor vehicle thefts in several key areas including Bunamwaya, Kawempe – Kalerwe, Mukono, and Ndeeba. The coordinated efforts resulted in the apprehension of 13 suspects allegedly involved in the illicit trade of stolen vehicles.
The arrested individuals were identified as Musinguzi Julius, Ssemyalo Rashid, Kasibante Stephen, Kibuuka Siraji, Kyazze Sammy, Bukenya Bashir, Mukasa Wamala, Kyazze Kennedy, Wandera John, Lubega Jerry, Nabuyondo Teddy, Bijumbuko Paul, and Anguzo Moses.
Among the successes of the operation were the recovery of several stolen motor vehicles, including:
- UAP 042N (Noah, originally registered as UAS043Z, stolen from Kumi)
- UBD 592G (Probox)
- SSD 992BC (Vitz)
- UAX 108E (Noah)
- UAX 827P (Isuzu Forward, originally registered as UBN 736K)
- UAG 608C (Isuzu Forward)
- Spacio
Motor vehicle UAP 042N, for instance, had been reported stolen in Kumi under a case of aggravated robbery (CRB 365/2024), resulting in the arrest and remand of suspects Amoit George and Taika Godfrey.
The operation, spearheaded by the Flying Squad, aimed not only to recover stolen vehicles but also to dismantle criminal networks operating across Central and Western Uganda. One such group, allegedly led by Wandera John, was targeted, leading to his arrest and subsequent custody.
Furthermore, investigations are ongoing into a group suspected of stealing lorries and trafficking them for sale in Kampala and the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC). Those currently detained to aid in the investigation include Kyazze Kennedy, Lubega Jerry, Nabuyondo Teddy, Bijumbuko Paul, Anguzo Moses, and Ssekyanda Drake.
In light of these developments, the Uganda Police Force, through its spokesperson ACP Rusoke Kituuma, urged vehicle owners to enhance their security measures, such as installing car trackers, to safeguard against theft and aid in swift recovery.
The successful operation underscores the commitment of the Uganda Police Force in combating crime and ensuring public safety across the country.
