Kigezi Police Arrest 72 Suspects in Night-Time Operation Targeting Criminals
Summary:
- ASP Elly Maate confirmed that the operation focused on “black spot” areas in the town, where criminal activities have been on the rise in recent months.
Rukungiri—The he territorial police in Rukungiri have arrested 72 suspected criminals in a bold, intelligence-led operation carried out on the night of October 7, 2025, believed to have been terrorizing the municipality. The operation targeted individuals involved in various criminal activities including bag snatching, burglary, theft, robberies, and the illicit possession and use of opium.
According to the Kigezi Regional Police Spokesperson, ASP Elly Maate,the operation focused on “black spot” areas in the town, where criminal activities have been on the rise in recent months.
Maate explained that Police also focused on individuals seen loitering in the streets at odd hours, unable to account for their whereabouts. During the operation, a number of suspects were apprehended in possession of burglary tools and substances believed to be opium, which some were found actively smoking at the time of their arrest.
“This operation was aimed at tackling the criminal activities that have been disturbing the peace of our citizens,” said ASP Maate. “We cannot allow criminals to make our communities unsafe, and this is just the beginning of a sustained effort to ensure security.”
After being taken into custody, the suspects were screened and processed this morning, where 26 individuals were formally charged with offenses such as public nuisance, possession of opium, and possession of breaking implements. They are now awaiting trial in court.
Kisoro Police Join Efforts with Successful Arrests
Meanwhile, in Kisoro District, an intelligence-led operation that had been ongoing since the previous week also bore fruit. On October 6, 2025, police rounded up a number of suspected criminals in a similar crackdown. Following a thorough screening, 20 suspects were arrested, with 8 of them already appearing before court. The charges against them mirror those in Rukungiri, ranging from possession and smoking of opium to carrying tools intended for burglaries.
“We are not only focusing on Rukungiri; the whole region is being targeted. Kisoro’s operation was equally successful, and we have already begun taking legal action against the arrested individuals,” said ASP Maate.
Kabale Police Still on the Hunt for Key Thugs
In Kabale, the hunt for remaining key suspects continues as the police tighten their net on high-profile criminals who are believed to be operating in the region. Four suspects were arrested over the weekend in a combined effort across Mpigi, Mbarara, and Kabale. These individuals are expected to be prosecuted together once investigations are completed.
Police have vowed to continue their relentless operations, targeting areas known for criminal activities until the situation is brought under control. “We will keep conducting these operations to ensure that crime does not thrive in our communities. The safety of our citizens is our priority, and we are committed to ensuring that justice is served,” ASP Maate emphasized.
A Step Toward a Safer Region
The success of these coordinated operations is seen as a significant step towards minimizing criminal activity in the Kigezi region, particularly in towns like Rukungiri, Kisoro, and Kabale. Residents have applauded the police for their swift action and the visible impact on street crime.
ENDS////////
