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Top Story: Kampala Police Bust Notorious ‘Jam Theft’ Ring, Arrest 9 Suspects in Citywide Crackdown
Kampala, August 23, 2025 — In a major breakthrough against a surge in vehicle vandalism, Kampala Metropolitan Police have arrested nine suspects believed to be the ringleaders of a criminal network behind the rising menace known as “jam theft” — a fast-paced form of traffic-related crime exploiting the city’s chronic congestion.
The arrests followed a coordinated, intelligence-led operation on August 22 by Central Police Station (CPS) Kampala and Jinja Road Police Division. The crackdown targeted several key hotspots notorious for such incidents, including Shell Nakawa, Punjab, Rufura, Wampewo, and the Mukwano Roundabout — all areas where motorists frequently fall victim while stuck in long queues.
How the Jam Theft Syndicate Operated
The “jam theft” strategy involves criminals moving through stalled traffic and targeting stationary vehicles, especially high-end models like Toyota Harriers and Mercedes Benz. Using speed and precision, the culprits steal parts such as side mirrors, front vents, and hubcaps — often within seconds.
Working in small, coordinated groups, some members distract drivers or watch for police while others swiftly vandalize vehicles. Their operations have left many motorists helpless, unable to respond before the thieves vanish into the crowd.
This rising trend has sparked widespread frustration and prompted a wave of complaints from the public, particularly via social media.
Nine Arrested, More Suspects on the Run
The suspects arrested during the sting operation have been identified as Dan Makana, Stephen Kajubi, Stephen Owundo, Ibra Asiimwe, Isaac Kageni, Baba, Izo Bindusa, Dan, and Ibra. All are currently detained at CPS Kampala, undergoing fingerprinting, background checks, and further interrogation.
According to police, the suspects confessed to multiple instances of theft and vandalism across the city. They also admitted to operating as part of a broader, organized criminal network, and are now assisting police in identifying additional accomplices still at large — including two individuals known only by aliases “Musiramu” and “Juice (Bugolobi)”.
Police Vow Continued Crackdown
Kampala Metropolitan Police Deputy PRO ASP Luke Owoyesigyire hailed the operation as a major success.
“This arrest disrupts a dangerous criminal network that has been exploiting Kampala’s traffic congestion to steal from motorists,” he said. “Our intelligence-led approach will continue to focus on dismantling such syndicates and ensuring public safety.”
He added that more operations will follow, with special focus on the Central Business District and other jam-prone corridors.
Public Reaction and Safety Advisory
The arrests have been welcomed by Kampala residents, who hope the move marks a turning point in efforts to secure the city’s roads.
Motorists are advised to remain vigilant, avoid distractions while in traffic, and report any suspicious activity immediately to nearby police officers or through official hotlines.
Police also urge the public to share any information that could lead to the arrest of remaining suspects, emphasizing that community cooperation is vital in the ongoing fight against urban crime.
With enhanced patrols and continued intelligence gathering, authorities are confident that Kampala’s notorious “jam thieves” will soon be a thing of the past.
