Police Crack Down on Motorcycle Theft Syndicate Operating in Northern Uganda

LAMWO, Uganda – Police in Lamwo District have dealt a significant blow to an organised criminal network, arresting two key suspects linked to a spate of motorcycle thefts in the Lira and Gulu areas. The operation has led to the recovery of several stolen motorcycles and a collection of concealed number plates.

The breakthrough came in the wake of a violent robbery in Lira City on February 18, 2026. According to police reports, a boda boda rider, identified as Okello Moses, was attacked with a hammer in the Railway Area and robbed of his motorcycle, registration number UGH 245H.

Acting on a tip-off following the incident, law enforcement officers immediately set up a checkpoint at Apyeta Bridge. It was there that they apprehended Kilama Robert, 27, a resident of Lwaya Village in Ogili Sub-County. In a coordinated effort, officers also arrested Oweka Gerald, who was found in possession of a red Bajaj motorcycle that bore no registration plates, raising immediate suspicion.

A subsequent search of Oweka Gerald’s residence uncovered a treasure trove of evidence, further solidifying the suspects’ links to the theft ring. Investigators recovered a complete motorcycle, various related documents, and a haul of suspected stolen number plates.

The plates, believed to have been removed from stolen bikes to evade detection, include: UGF 193J, UGH 918M, UMA 367BC, UFS 918F, UGA 101H, and UGA 069H.

The two suspects are currently in custody at a Lamwo District police station as investigations into their operations continue. Authorities believe their arrest will help unravel a wider network of motorcycle theft in the region.

In the wake of the recovery, police have issued a public appeal. Individuals who have had their motorcycles stolen are encouraged to come forward to the nearest police station for verification and to help identify the recovered exhibits.