KAMPALA, Uganda — The Uganda Police Force has stepped up operations across the Kampala Metropolitan Area following a surge in violent crime, dismissing the city’s top police commander and launching sweeping security crackdowns that have led to hundreds of arrests.
The Inspector General of Police Abas Byakagaba relieved Commissioner of Police Richard Ecega of his duties as Kampala Metropolitan Police commander. The move follows weeks of public outcry over rising robberies, muggings, burglaries and phone snatching in Kampala and surrounding districts of Wakiso and Mukono.
Residents have cited low police visibility, especially at traffic lights, major junctions and during heavy traffic jams, where many attacks have occurred. Security officials say the leadership changes are aimed at improving response time and restoring operational efficiency ahead of the 2026 general elections.
Ecega has been replaced by Commissioner of Police Ezekiel Emitu, formerly commandant of the Police Training School in Kabalye, Masindi District. Emitu previously served as deputy commander in Kampala, giving him experience in the metropolitan command.
The reshuffle also affected key positions in crime intelligence, including the removal of Ecega’s deputy and the metropolitan head of crime intelligence. Police sources describe the changes as part of a broader strategy to rebuild public trust and strengthen intelligence led policing.
Security operations have intensified across identified hotspots.
On Feb. 15, police conducted raids in Nsangi, Kajansi and Nateete targeting suspected marijuana smoking points, robbery blackspots and drug activity. According to official statements, 166 suspects were arrested.
A day later, a Joint Task Force swept through areas of Wakiso, including Nansana, Kira Municipality and Kyanja, as well as parts of Kampala’s Central Business District. More than 255 suspects were arrested on allegations of possessing suspected narcotics, robbery and related crimes. Police said narcotics and other exhibits were recovered.
On Feb. 17, coordinated operations in Kampala Metropolitan East and South, covering Wakiso and Mukono, led to 147 arrests linked to robbery, mugging, burglary and drug offenses. Additional operations in Kabalagala resulted in 125 arrests.
Assistant Inspector General of Police Christopher Damulira said security teams recovered four submachine guns between Jan. 20 and 24 in Kampala and arrested nine suspects. The suspects reportedly confessed to at least 12 murders, including the killing of a police officer.
Damulira rejected claims that crime has taken over the city, saying police have dismantled criminal networks, resolved several murder and break in cases and reduced gun related incidents following the firearm recoveries.
Deputy police spokesperson Luke Owoyesigyire said intelligence driven operations will continue in identified hotspots, with greater community engagement and similar anti mugging tactics rolled out nationwide.
Despite the operations, anxiety remains high among residents, fueled by reports of attacks circulating on social media. Police maintain that sustained enforcement and leadership changes will help restore order and ensure safety in the capital.
