Kampala Metropolitan Police have arrested nine individuals suspected of orchestrating a wave of thefts and vandalism targeting motorists stuck in traffic across the city.

The arrests were made during a joint intelligence-led operation conducted today, August 22, by officers from Central Police Station (CPS) Kampala and the Jinja Road Police Division.

The operation focused on known high-risk areas, including Shell Nakawa, Punjab, Rufura, Wampewo, and the Mukwano Roundabout stretch—locations frequently flagged by the public through social media and formal reports as hotspots for criminal activity during peak traffic hours.

Police say the suspects primarily targeted vehicles such as Toyota Harriers and Mercedes Benz models, stealing valuable parts like side mirrors and front vents.

The nine suspects, currently held at CPS Kampala, are undergoing screening, fingerprinting, and interrogation as part of ongoing investigations. Authorities identified them as Dan Makana, Stephen Kajubi, Stephen Owundo, Ibra Asiimwe, Isaac Kageni, Baba, Izo Bindusa, Dan, and Ibra.

According to police, the suspects have confessed to involvement in multiple incidents and are cooperating in efforts to track down other accomplices still at large—including individuals known as Musiramu and Juice, the latter reportedly operating around Bugolobi.

ASP Luke Owoyesigyire, Deputy Public Relations Officer for Kampala Metropolitan Police, described the operation as a significant breakthrough in the fight against what has become known as “Jam Theft” in the city. He confirmed that more intelligence-driven operations will continue, particularly within and around the central business district.

Owoyesigyire urged the public to remain vigilant and report any suspicious activity, as police intensify efforts to dismantle criminal networks involved in vehicle-related theft and vandalism.

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