Police have arrested seven suspects in connection with the alleged theft and dealing in motor vehicle parts in Nateete, Kampala District.
The arrests followed public concern over increasing cases of theft from vehicles in the area, particularly Toyota Harrier vehicles, after a video circulated on social media showing a motorist complaining about vandalism targeting the vehicles.
According to police, an intelligence-led operation conducted on September 15, 2026 resulted in the arrest of Jjuko Muhammad, who was suspected of involvement in the theft of motor vehicle parts.
Police said Jjuko subsequently led investigators to six other suspects who were arrested on September 17, 2026.
The additional suspects were identified as Agaba Gabriel, Kushemererwa Justine, Muwanguzi Daniel, Ntege Said, Wasswa Frank and Lubega Ivan.
Police said searches of shops belonging to the suspects led to the recovery of various motor vehicle parts from Kisekka Market. The recovered items have been documented and are being treated as exhibits in the ongoing investigations.
Preliminary findings indicate that the suspects were allegedly involved in buying and dealing in stolen motor vehicle parts over a prolonged period, police said.
Some of the recovered side mirrors reportedly bear vehicle registration numbers, which investigators believe could help identify the vehicles from which the parts were removed and trace their owners.
The registration numbers found on some of the recovered side mirrors include UAS 480J, UBK 447G, UA 086DB, UBM 991L, UAR 213K and UBG 969D.
Police have appealed to members of the public who recognise the registration numbers or have information about the recovered parts to come forward and assist investigators.
The seven suspects and the recovered exhibits remain in police custody as investigations continue.
Police spokesperson for Kampala Metropolitan Area, Racheal Kawala, said further details would be provided as the investigations progress.
The allegations against the suspects have not been tested in court, and they are presumed innocent unless proven guilty.
