Mbarara Police Arrest Over 15 in Kisenyi Drug Crackdown

Targeted operation in crime hotspot recovers narcotics as police link drug dens to rising urban insecurity.

Police in Mbarara have arrested more than 15 suspects in a targeted crackdown on drug trafficking in the Kisenyi suburb, an area authorities say has become a hub for criminal activity.

The early morning operation followed intelligence reports identifying specific houses used as distribution points for narcotics. Security teams conducted house-to-house searches, recovering marijuana and other illicit substances, along with drug paraphernalia.

The suspects, whose identities are being withheld pending investigations, are currently detained at Mbarara Central Police Station.

According to Kenneth Kabwigo, who led the operation, the crackdown is part of a broader strategy to address rising insecurity in the city.

“We are conducting these operations as a proactive measure to curb the insecurity in the city. The operation is specifically targeting areas raising concerns of attacks and where criminal elements congregate to plan their activities,” Kabwigo said.

The operation comes amid growing concern from residents over increased robberies and nighttime attacks. Local leaders have linked the surge in crime to widespread drug use and the existence of drug dens, which they say serve as coordination points for criminal activity.

Kabwigo warned that the Kisenyi operation marks the beginning of a wider city-wide enforcement campaign.

“We want to send a clear message to those engaged in illegal trade and terrorizing residents: Mbarara will not be a safe haven for you. We urge the public to continue providing us with timely information,” he added.

Police say the suspects will be arraigned in court once their case files are processed by the Directorate of Public Prosecutions, with charges expected to include possession of prohibited substances and possible links to organized crime.

In the meantime, security has been heightened in Kisenyi, with increased patrols aimed at preventing the re-emergence of criminal networks.

Residents have welcomed the crackdown, with some calling for a permanent police presence in the area to sustain the improved security.