Police arrest 27-year-old man over viral Banda crime video

Police have arrested a 27-year-old man in connection with a viral social media video that allegedly references criminal activities along Banda in Nakawa Division, Kampala District.

The suspect, identified as Solomon Wafula, a resident of Banda Zone III in Banda Parish, was arrested Thursday by detectives attached to Banda Police Station.

The video, which reportedly circulated via X, formerly Twitter, sparked concern among residents who questioned whether security had seen it. Detectives said the suspect was arrested after the video was widely circulated and the public became concerned because it makes references to criminal operations.

‘The video attracted attention, prompting intelligence to verify the claims made in it and identifying any individuals who may have been implicated or exposed by its contents,’ a detective said.

Kampala Metropolitan Police deputy spokesperson Luke Owoyesigyire said the suspect is being probed on the circumstances that led him to record the video and to establish whether he personally participated in any criminal activity.

“We are investigating the circumstances under which the video was made and whether the suspect or any of the individuals mentioned therein have been involved in criminal acts committed along Jinja Road and its surrounding areas,” Mr Owoyesigyire said.

Police emphasized the investigation is still at an early stage as detectives work to establish the authenticity of the claims made in the video, as well as the identities of other individuals allegedly mentioned in it.

Detectives indicate the video began circulating earlier in the week, attracting rapid attention due to alleged references to specific locations and unnamed individuals purportedly linked to criminal activity.

Owoyesigyire warned that while social media remains a vital tool for public communication, it can also be misused to spread content that may endanger investigations or encourage unlawful behavior.

‘Police would like to caution members of the public against producing, sharing, or circulating content that glorifies, promotes, or appears to endorse criminal activity,’ he said. ‘Such conduct is not tolerated and may undermine ongoing efforts to combat crime and maintain public order.’

Another detective from Police Crime Intelligence said they are pursuing leads linked to individuals allegedly mentioned or implied in the viral video.

‘We are profiling the suspect and connecting his records to see whether he has ever participated in any criminal activity,’ the detective said.

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