Joint security forces in Gulu City have arrested 90 suspected criminal gang members following a disruptive intelligence-led operation conducted across key areas in the city.
According to a statement issued by ASP Ongom David Mudong, PRO Aswa East Region, the operation was carried out on 15th and 16th February 2026 within Gulu Central Business Division and the neighbouring divisions of Gulu City East and Gulu City West.
“The joint security components of the Police and the Army have intensified disruptive intelligence-led operations targeting criminal cells within the Gulu Central Business Division and its neighbouring divisions of Gulu City East and West,” ASP Ongom said.
The coordinated operation focused on areas along Cemetery Road, opposite GASCO Petrol Station, and Prisons Ward. Authorities say the targeted crackdown followed growing complaints from residents and business owners over night-time attacks and disruption of businesses within the city centre. “The operation conducted on 15th and 16th February 2026 in the areas of Cemetery Road, opposite GASCO Petrol Station and Prisons Ward led to the arrest of 90 suspected criminal gangs who have been terrorising people at night and disrupting businesses within the City Centre and its surrounding areas,” he stated.
Security officials revealed that some of the suspects were found in possession of marijuana, house-breaking implements and sharp knives at the time of arrest. “Upon screening, we discovered that most of the suspects were those recently released from prisons on plea bargain, while others had been sentenced to community service, which some of them defaulted on and failed to reform,” ASP Ongom added.
Authorities say screening of the suspects is still ongoing. Fingerprints are being obtained to help document and trace previous criminal records, while statements have been recorded from the suspects and other relevant sources. Exhibits including house-breaking tools, knives and marijuana have been recovered and documented as evidence. “The case file shall be submitted to the Resident State Attorney for legal guidance before prosecution in courts of law,” ASP Ongom confirmed.
Security agencies have assured the public that similar operations will continue as part of efforts to restore order and safeguard lives and property within Gulu City. “As we earlier promised to guarantee security within the city and its neighbourhoods, this operation will continue until we ensure sanity in the city,” the statement concluded.
The development comes amid heightened security vigilance in urban centres aimed at curbing gang-related crime and protecting businesses and residents.