72 Suspects Arrested in Rukungiri During Police Intelligence-Led Operation

The police in Rukungiri District have arrested 72 suspected criminals during an intelligence-led operation conducted on the night of October 7, 2025, as part of ongoing efforts to curb rising crime in the area.

According to ASP Maate Elly, the Kigezi Regional Police Spokesperson, the operation targeted individuals believed to be behind a series of bag snatching, burglaries, thefts, robberies, and drug-related offences within Rukungiri Municipality.

During the operation, police rounded up suspects from known black spots, with some found in possession of breaking implements, while others were caught smoking opium or loitering on the streets without any clear purpose during late-night hours.

A screening exercise conducted the following morning, October 8, 2025, led to 26 suspects being charged with various offences, including public nuisance, possession and smoking of opium, and possession of housebreaking implements. The suspects are expected to appear in court soon.

In a related operation, Kisoro police also conducted an intelligence-led crackdown between October 1 and 6, 2025, during which several suspects were arrested. After screening, 20 suspects were detained, and eight have already appeared before the court, while others remain pending similar charges.

Meanwhile, in Kabale District, security agencies are continuing the hunt for key suspects linked to recent criminal activities. Four individuals arrested over the weekend from Mpigi, Mbarara, and Kabale are expected to be prosecuted together once investigations are complete.

ASP Maate told reporters on Wednesday that such coordinated operations will continue across the Kigezi region until criminal activities are significantly reduced.