Police Arrest 41 Over Looting and Assaults in Gulu City During NUP Kyagulanyi Rally
Gulu, Uganda (December 18, 2025) – Police in Gulu have arrested 41 individuals suspected of participating in a violent spree of looting and assaults that occurred in the city center on December 6, 2025, during a campaign visit by National Unity Platform (NUP) Presidential candidate Robert Kyagulanyi Sentamu.
The series of arrests was revealed by Mudong Ongom David, the Aswa-Gulu Regional Police Spokesperson, in a statement released today, Thursday, December 18, 2025. Ongom confirmed that the arrests followed a meticulous investigation, including the analysis of CCTV footage and intelligence networks, which helped identify the individuals responsible for the unrest.
CCTV Analysis Leads to Arrests
According to Ongom, the police utilized cutting-edge surveillance techniques and information gathered from various intelligence sources to track down the suspects. A coordinated operation was carried out on the night of December 18, 2025, across Gulu City and its suburbs, resulting in the detention of 41 individuals. These suspects are now being held at the Gulu Central Police Station (CPS) as investigations continue.
The operation was part of an ongoing effort by the Uganda Police Force to crack down on criminal activities that surfaced during Kyagulanyi’s campaign rally. Police have stressed that they will continue to monitor social media platforms and other communication channels to track down all accomplices who may have been involved in organizing or inciting the violence.
Alleged Leader of the Mob Identified
Among the 41 arrested individuals is Aleng Fatuma, who stands accused of playing a key role in organizing the looting and violence. According to authorities, Fatuma used various media platforms, including the popular social media app TikTok, to mobilize groups of young people to engage in criminal activities during the rally. Police have confirmed that efforts to track down and arrest other individuals involved in the mob actions are still ongoing.
Ongom stated that the police were committed to bringing all those responsible for the destruction to justice. “Through careful intelligence and coordinated operations, we will ensure that those involved in these criminal acts are fully held accountable,” he said.
Public Reassurance Amid Tensions
The violent events during Kyagulanyi’s rally left several businesses and properties in Gulu City damaged, sparking tension and concern among residents. However, Ongom reassured the public that law and order would be restored. He urged the people of the Acholi Sub-region to remain calm, highlighting that the police are committed to ensuring justice is served.
“We urge the general public, especially the people of Acholi Sub-region, to remain calm as we work diligently to ensure that all those responsible are brought to book so that justice prevails,” Ongom said. “The law will take its course, and we will not allow criminal elements to disrupt the peace and safety of Gulu City.”
Ongoing Investigations and Future Steps
Police continue to investigate the full extent of the looting and assaults, with a focus on identifying the key players behind the violence. Authorities have indicated that more arrests could follow, depending on the results of the ongoing investigations.
“We have made substantial progress in this case, and as promised, all individuals found guilty will be summoned or arrested in accordance with the law,” said Ongom.
The arrest of 41 suspects marks a significant step in restoring peace to Gulu, but police emphasize that further operations may be necessary as they continue to address the aftermath of the disturbances.
Calls for Cooperation from the Public
The police have also appealed for continued cooperation from the public in helping to identify those involved in the looting and assaults. Ongom called on residents of Gulu City to report any suspicious activities to law enforcement agencies.
“We cannot fight crime alone – it is essential that the community continues to be our eyes and ears. We urge residents to report any information that could help us bring the remaining suspects to justice,” Ongom concluded.
Looking Ahead: Restoring Peace and Order in Gulu
The unrest in Gulu City serves as a stark reminder of the challenges law enforcement faces during politically charged events. As the investigation unfolds, the authorities’ primary goal remains to ensure that such acts of violence do not disrupt the peace and security of the city and the surrounding regions.
Police have also promised that they will continue to work closely with community leaders, local businesses, and other stakeholders to maintain peace and prevent further incidents.
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For ongoing updates on this developing story, follow our news coverage on Gulu City and the NUP Kyagulanyi Rally aftermath.
