KAMPALA, Uganda – Police in Kira Division have arrested one suspect and impounded a taxi believed to have been used in a series of robberies targeting passengers across the Kampala Metropolitan Area.
The vehicle, registration number UAW 401G, is suspected to have been involved in multiple theft incidents reported by commuters travelling between Kampala and surrounding suburbs.
According to Kampala Metropolitan Police spokesperson, Assistant Superintendent of Police Racheal Kawala, investigators are examining the taxi’s alleged role in several robbery cases while efforts continue to identify and apprehend additional suspects.
“The taxi is suspected to have been used in a series of robberies within the Kampala Metropolitan Area. One suspect is in custody as investigations continue,” Kawala said.
Police investigations were intensified following a complaint filed on June 11, 2026, by a 20-year-old student from Bulabira who reported losing his Samsung Note 10 smartphone after boarding the taxi at Najeera Shell fuel station while travelling to Kampala city centre.
According to police, the student was seated in the front passenger seat when the conductor allegedly informed him that the vehicle’s door was not properly closed and instructed him to step out.
“The victim was asked to alight from the vehicle under the pretext that the door was not properly closed. Shortly after, he realized his phone had been stolen,” Kawala explained.
In a separate incident reported on May 27, 2026, a woman from Bukoto allegedly lost her mobile phone while travelling in the same taxi along the Northern Bypass in Kyebando.
Police said the latest breakthrough came on June 12, when officers spotted the suspected vehicle in Namugongo and attempted to stop it for inspection. However, the driver allegedly ignored police instructions and sped off, triggering a pursuit.
The chase ended along the Northern Bypass where officers successfully intercepted the vehicle and arrested one suspect identified as Muwonge Isma, a 47-year-old resident of Kyengera.
A subsequent search of the taxi reportedly led to the recovery of a panga and a large stone, both of which police have retained as exhibits to support ongoing investigations.
Authorities believe the vehicle may have been used in additional robbery incidents and are appealing to members of the public who may have fallen victim to similar crimes to come forward and assist with investigations.
Police have assured the public that efforts are underway to establish the full extent of the criminal network and bring all individuals involved to justice.
The suspect remains in custody as investigations continue.
