Rukungiri Security Nets 52 Suspected Criminals

Rukungiri: An intelligence-led joint security operation conducted by the Uganda Police Force and the Uganda Peoples’ Defence Force has led to the arrest of 52 suspects in Rukungiri Municipality, Rukungiri District.

The operation was carried out in the early hours of Wednesday, February 18, 2026, at about 12:30 a.m., targeting mapped-out black spots known for harboring criminal elements. The joint team focused on areas associated with drug abuse, robbery, and break-ins affecting shops, stores, and residential houses.

According to a police report, the operation was led by IP Elias Muhairwe, the Officer in Charge of Operations, Rukungiri; IP Sande Richard; and AIP Arinitwe Gad, the Officer in Charge of the Field Force Unit (FFU).

During the sweep, several suspects were found in possession of and smoking opium, while others were discovered with suspected house-breaking implements. Some individuals were arrested from hideouts without satisfactory accountability, raising suspicion that they were planning to commit criminal acts.

The suspects were registered under SD references 06/18/02/2026, 07/18/02/2026, and 17/18/02/2026 at CPS Rukungiri and are currently detained at Rukungiri Police Station pending prosecution.

Police have described the operation as successful and reaffirmed their commitment to conducting similar disruptive intelligence-led operations to curb crime and ensure the safety of the public and their property in Rukungiri District.