Kampala police boss, CP Ecega sacked as IGP moves to tackle capital crime

Kampala Metropolitan Police Commander Richard Ecega has been sacked amid rising violent crime as over 200 suspects are arrested in city operations.

Kampala Metropolitan Police Commander, CP Richard Ecega has been sacked (Photo/Courtesy)

Kampala, Uganda: The Inspector General of Police, IGP Abas Byakagaba, has sacked the Kampala Metropolitan Police Commander, CP Richard Ecega, amid mounting public concern over rising violent crime in the capital.

Sources confirmed on Tuesday that Ecega has already been replaced by Ezekiel Emitu, who has been serving as Commandant of the Police Training School, Kabalye in Masindi District. He will be replaced by the Deputy Director of Counter Terrorism at Kabalye.

The reshuffle also affected the head of Crime Intelligence in Kampala Metropolitan Police, Senior Superintendent of Police Ben Kasozi, who has been replaced by SSP Julius Isabirye.

The leadership changes come amid a surge in violent crime across the Kampala Metropolitan Area.

Residents have reported increased attacks by panga-wielding gangs riding motorcycles, particularly along the Northern Bypass, Makindye, and Kyanja in Kampala City; as well as in Nansana Municipality, Kajjansi, Nsangi, Kira Municipality, Makindye-Ssabagabo in Wakiso District, and Goma Division in Mukono Municipality.

While police officials have maintained that the overall crime situation remains under control, intensified security operations suggest heightened concern.

In recent weeks, more than 300 suspects have been arrested in targeted operations across the metropolitan area.

Nsangi Police Division conducted disruptive operations in Kyengera Central, Nabaziza, Masanda and Kinawa, while Kira Police Division carried out raids in Bulindo Katuli Zone and Buwate Ghetto.

The crackdown follows growing public outcry over street robberies, phone snatching and gang attacks, especially during evening hours.

Police say operations will continue as they seek to dismantle criminal networks and restore public confidence.

The latest reshuffle signals a firm response from the police leadership as authorities move to contain the rising wave of criminality in the capital.