Police have arrested at least 700 suspects in the Greater Kampala Metropolitan Area during intelligence-led operations conducted between February 16 and 22, 2026, targeting a surge in violent crime, narcotics, and gang activity.

Police spokesperson Kituuma Rusoke told journalists on Monday that the week-long operations, carried out jointly with other security agencies, focused on blackspots, hideouts, and known narcotic hubs.

“The operations targeted burglary, robbery, narcotics, street mugging and related crimes. We arrested over 700 suspects as we targeted known blackspots, hideouts and narcotic hubs,” Rusoke said.

He revealed that nationwide arrests during the same period reached 1,905 suspects.

Several narcotics, stolen items, and other exhibits were recovered.

Regionally, Kampala Metropolitan East recorded 254 arrests, while Kampala Metropolitan South saw 510 suspects apprehended, with additional operations in other divisions contributing to the total.

The crackdown comes amid a noticeable rise in high-profile thefts, armed robberies, violent snatchings, and gang-related incidents in crowded transport hubs, commercial zones, and densely populated neighbourhoods across Kampala.

Police have acknowledged that many of the arrested individuals are repeat offenders—either previously convicted and having served sentences or released on bail by courts.

Rusoke attributed part of the crime uptick to these releases and the challenges of policing Uganda’s rapidly growing urban areas.

Despite the difficulties, he reaffirmed the force’s commitment to sustained action.

“The main goal of these operations is to disrupt gangs, prevent crime and secure communities. We commit to sustain these intelligence-led operations working with communities,” Rusoke stated.

The operations form part of a broader security response to restore public safety and deter criminal networks operating in the capital and its surrounding districts.

Authorities have urged residents to continue cooperating by reporting suspicious activities and providing information to aid ongoing investigations.