The Territorial Police in Kampala Metropolitan have arrested 25 suspects accused of violently snatching mobile phones from motorists and passengers caught in traffic along the Northern Bypass.
The suspects were netted during an intelligence-led operation conducted on Thursday, December 5, 2025, targeting criminal gangs that have been terrorising road users, particularly around the Double Q stretch—one of the most traffic-prone points on the bypass.
According to Kampala Metropolitan Police Deputy PRO ASP Luke Owoyesigyire, the suspects were “caught red-handed grabbing phones from victims stuck in traffic.” Police also impounded eight motorcycles allegedly used by the group to execute the thefts.
Witnesses have already recorded statements, and police say they have obtained video footage capturing the suspects in action—evidence expected to strengthen the prosecution’s case. All the suspects are currently being held at Nateete Police Division as investigations progress.
ASP Owoyesigyire said the force has stepped up vigilance ahead of the festive season, a period that typically sees increased traffic congestion and heightened criminal activity. “Deployments during traffic jam hours will continue… to curb this criminal activity and enhance the safety of road users,” he assured.
He also commended members of the public for their vigilance and cooperation, noting that several tip-offs have helped police respond more swiftly to crimes along major roadways.
The Northern Bypass, one of Kampala’s busiest transit corridors, has in recent months experienced a surge in motorcycle-enabled snatching incidents—often carried out by groups targeting motorists stuck in slow-moving or standstill traffic. Police say more operations are planned to dismantle the networks behind such attacks.
