The Police in Masindi are holding five suspected criminals who were rounded last night up during an intelligence-led operation by the Uganda Police and Uganda People Defence Forces-UPDF soldiers.
The suspects whose details have been concealed for fear of jeopardising security investigations were arrested on Friday night in Kijura and Katama cells in Masindi Municipality.
The operation followed complaints from residents, especially the business community about rampant thefts and attacks by the suspected criminals.
Solomon Mugisa, the Community Liaison officer (CLO) at Masindi Central police station has confirmed the arrests and detentions of the suspects. He says, following numerous complaints from the public, about increased attacks on motorists, pedestrians and residents by unknown thugs, they instituted investigations and made arrests.
Mugisa says, some of the suspects were found with machetes, an indication that they are wrong elements within the community. “Joint security operations by the police and the Uganda Peoples Defence Forces – UPDF in Masindi have netted five suspected criminals following spikes in local robberies, house break-ins, and assaults, “he said.
He adds that the operation is still ongoing to ensure criminals are eliminated from the municipality.
He appealed to the public to share any information that could lead to the arrest of the accomplices. Mugisa says the suspects are currently undergoing screening before they are arraigned before the court to be charged accordingly.
Harriet Kugonza, a resident of Kijura cell in Central division says at times they spent sleepless nights due to invasions by thugs in the area and is appealing to the police to conduct more patrols.
Charles Irumba, of Katama cell in Central division says more operations by police and other security agencies are needed following the escalating cases of thefts and house break-ins in the area-URN. Give us feedback on this story through our email: kamwokyatimes@gmail.com
