Police and the army (UPDF) have arrested 17 suspects in an intelligence-led operation targeting the alleged sale and consumption of opium in Pader Town Council, Pader District.
A statement issued by North Kyoga Regional Police spokesperson SP Patrick Jimmy Okema, says the operation followed intelligence received on October 21, 2026, indicating that a group of youths routinely smoked opium behind a building opposite Atimakica Guest House in Pader Town Council.
The joint security operation was conducted at about 6:30pm on Thursday, October 22, by officers from Pader Central Police Station (CPS) and UPDF personnel attached to the Airfield Detachment. The operation resulted in the arrest of 17 suspects; 16 adult males and a female who with a baby.
Police identified one of the suspects as Rubangakene Ivan, also known as “Take Off,” who is suspected of vending the substance. His wife, Acheng Scovia, was also arrested during the operation.
The security team reportedly recovered 24 sticks of narcotis and Shs15,000, believed to be proceeds from the alleged sale of the substance. The items were found tied together in a black polythene bag, according to the police statement.
A subsequent search at Rubangakene’s residence led to the recovery of what police described as a large quantity of suspected opium concealed in a large khaki box.
The 17 suspects are being held at Pader Central Police Station pending screening, which police say will be conducted with the assistance of LC chairpersons to establish each suspect’s alleged involvement.
Police said case files will be compiled and submitted to the State Attorney for perusal and legal guidance on possible charges, including offences relating to illegal drugs possession and smoking.
The charges, if any, will depend on the outcome of investigations and the legal advice received.
Okema said the operation forms part of ongoing security efforts to prevent and combat crime through intelligence-led policing and community engagement.
He urged members of the public to provide timely and credible information about suspected criminals, their activities and hideouts to help security investigate offences and apprehend suspects. Police also assured residents that similar operations would continue in accordance with the law to promote safety and security in the area-URN. Give us feedback on this story through our email: kamwokyatimes@gmail.com
