Suspect arrested with police gun in Wakiso slum

Security agencies in Wakiso District have arrested a suspected member of a criminal gang and recovered a rifle believed to have been used in a string of robberies across the Kampala Metropolitan area.

The operation, conducted in Nsangi and Kyengera divisions, followed a tip-off from residents about suspicious activities in the area.

According to Kampala Metropolitan Police deputy spokesperson, Mr Luke Owoyesigyire, the intelligence-led raid led to the arrest of 26-year-old Vincent Kimbugwe, also known as Kasumali.

Police officers later searched the suspect’s residence in Massanda Cell, Kyengera Town Council, where they recovered an AK-47 rifle.

Preliminary findings indicate the firearm was in a deteriorated condition, with visible rust and a tampered serial number, raising concerns about its origin and possible involvement in criminal activity.

Mr Owoyesigyire said the weapon has since been submitted to the police forensic laboratory for detailed examination to establish its history, including whether it has been used in previous crimes.

Sources close to the investigation said that during interrogation, the suspect allegedly admitted to being part of a criminal gang whose members are currently on remand at Kitalya prison on charges of aggravated robbery and murder.

“Most of the group members have criminal records. They were previously incarcerated at Kitalya prison, where they coordinated efforts to secure bail before regrouping and resuming criminal activities,” a source said.

Gun linked to robberies

Investigators at the Directorate of Police Forensic Services have since linked the recovered firearm to several robberies. Ballistic analysis reportedly indicates that the rifle belongs to the police and was previously used in robberies in Kassanda, Nsangi, and Kabalagala in 2023.

In those earlier incidents, police recovered two guns and arrested nine suspects believed to be part of the same criminal network.

Kimbugwe remains in police custody as investigations continue. Authorities say he is likely to face charges of illegal possession of a firearm, aggravated robbery, and possibly murder, depending on the outcome of ongoing forensic analysis.

Police have commended residents and local leaders in Kyengera for providing timely information, saying community cooperation remains critical in the fight against crime.

The arrest comes amid ongoing concerns over the proliferation of illegal firearms. According to the Police Forensic Report 2025, the Ballistic and Toolmark Department handled 332 cases, of which 107 involved firearms that were forensically linked through ballistic examination.

The report further indicates that 27 firearms were identified, with 11 recovered and 16 still unaccounted for, highlighting the persistent challenge faced by law enforcement in tracking illegal weapons.

Authorities say operations to recover illicit firearms and dismantle criminal gangs will continue as part of efforts to enhance public safety.