The Uganda Police Force has moved to reassure the public following growing concerns about crime in different parts of the country, emphasizing recent operational successes and calling for calm and cooperation.
In a press statement issued from Police Headquarters, the Force acknowledged the anxiety generated by incidents reported both formally and through social media platforms. Police leadership noted that public safety remains their primary mandate.
“We are mindful of the concerns being raised by members of the public because we are the custodians of their peace,” said Police Spokesperson Afande Rusoke. “Every report that comes to our attention is treated seriously, and we are responding decisively.”
Police reported significant progress in combating aggravated robberies, particularly within the Kampala Metropolitan Policing area. Between January 20 and 24, 2026, security operatives recovered four sub-machine guns and arrested nine suspects in the Kampala Metropolitan Policing area. Preliminary investigations have linked the recovered firearms to more than twelve crime scenes.
“Those guns we recovered were not idle weapons,” Afande Rusoke stated. “Our preliminary findings indicate they were used in over twelve incidents. Since the arrests and recovery, armed robberies in the affected areas have significantly gone silent.”
According to Police, the operation marked a major disruption of organized criminal networks responsible for violent robberies in the capital and surrounding districts. The Force further disclosed that since early February, a series of intelligence-led disruptive operations have been conducted, particularly within the Kampala Metropolitan Policing Area.
Over 440 suspected muggers, burglars, and consumers of narcotics have been arrested. Authorities say the suspects were screened, and the majority have already been arraigned before courts of law. “These operations are deliberate and intelligence-driven,” Afande Rusoke explained. “We are targeting criminal cells that have been terrorizing communities. The arrests are part of a sustained effort to restore order and deter habitual offenders.”
Police also reported progress in investigating several high-profile murder cases that have drawn public attention in recent years. Suspects have been arrested with what authorities described as strong leads. The cases include the murder of a socialite in Kyanja, the murder of a director at UCU, and the killing of two individuals at a hotel in Lungujja. “These cases have been complex, but we have made important breakthroughs,” Afande Rusoke said. “Our investigators are working diligently to ensure justice is served.”
While outlining the Force’s operational gains, police urged members of the public to remain calm and maintain close contact with security agencies. “Our appeal to the public is simple,” Afande Rusoke said. “Stay calm, stay vigilant, and stay connected to the police. Save the hotline numbers and reach out to your nearest station whenever you notice anything suspicious.”
Police encouraged citizens to use official hotlines and emergency lines, including the National Emergency Centre lines 112 and 999, as well as specialized units such as CID, Traffic, and Fire Prevention and Rescue Services. “The fight against crime requires partnership,” Afande Rusoke added. “When the public shares timely information, it strengthens our response and helps us prevent incidents before they escalate.”
The Uganda Police Force reiterated its commitment to protecting life and property and assured the country that intelligence-led operations will continue in order to dismantle criminal networks and sustain public safety.