Police Arrest 13 Traders Over Downtown Kampala Unrest

Officers from the Central Police Station (CPS) Kampala have arrested 13 people suspected of being traders following an operation aimed at restoring order in downtown Kampala.

According to ASP Luke Owoyesigyire, the Deputy Public Relations Officer for Kampala Metropolitan Police, the suspects were apprehended after intelligence reports indicated that members of the public were being attacked during a traders’ protest.

“This stems from a group of traders who decided to show dissatisfaction with the ongoing taxes levied against them and the ever-increasing rent in downtown Kampala. To express their frustration, they chose to close their shops and suspend work until their concerns are addressed,” Owoyesigyire said.

He explained that while some traders opted to reopen and continue working, this angered the protesting group, who allegedly began forcing others to close their shops by assaulting them and hurling stones.

“Police responded promptly to stop these unlawful acts. It is not a crime for someone to choose not to participate in a strike or demonstration, and no one should be forced to join,” he emphasised.

During the operation, two police officers were reportedly assaulted by members of the public. Two suspects were arrested on allegations of assaulting officers on lawful duty, while the remaining 11 were detained for inciting violence.

Owoyesigyire urged traders to remain calm and respect the law as investigations continue.

“It is not unlawful for anyone to close their shop in protest, but it becomes criminal when traders who wish to work are prevented from doing so by others,” he noted, adding that police will maintain deployments in the downtown area until normalcy is fully restored.

Statements from the suspects are yet to be recorded as inquiries continue.