Police have arrested more than 18 suspects and recovered vehicle components in an intelligence-led operation targeting the suspected theft and illegal trade in motor vehicle spare parts at Kisekka Market in downtown Kampala.
The Wednesday operation, conducted by officers from Jinja Road Police Station at Ravens Plaza and Life Arcade, targeted suspected dealers in stolen vehicle components.
It was led by Division Police Commander SP Sulait Kataka and Officer in Charge of Operations ASP Brian Rugaju.
Kampala Metropolitan Police spokesperson SP Rachael Kawala confirmed the arrests, saying ‘the operation followed public complaints about the increasing theft of vehicle parts, particularly during traffic congestion along Jinja Road, Ntinda and other areas within the metropolitan policing area.’
She urged motorists to report cases of vehicle parts theft to police.
Recovered items included grilles for Toyota Harriers, Land Cruisers and Noahs, side mirrors and other components suspected to have been stolen from different vehicles.
Among those arrested is Eric Mukisa, who reportedly identified himself as a boda boda rider and transporter of motor vehicle spare parts from Bwaise to Kisekka Market.
Police said Mukisa was found with four vehicle lights suspected to belong to different vehicles. Investigators are seeking to establish how he acquired the items and whether he is connected to a wider network involved in stealing and selling vehicle components.
In a separate discovery, officers found chemicals, sharp objects and other materials in a shop on the first floor of Life Arcade, identified as Shop No. 1-28.
Police suspect the materials could have been used to tamper with vehicle identification numbers by removing existing markings and replacing them, potentially making it difficult to trace stolen components to their original vehicles.
The operation also led to the arrest of a mechanic in connection with a vehicle, registration number UBR 579H, which was reportedly found parked outside Life Arcade without a side mirror.
The mechanic allegedly told police that the vehicle had been brought to his workshop for replacement of the missing mirror. Investigators are yet to establish how the mirror went missing and whether the vehicle is linked to the suspected theft network.
Police informers also pursued other suspects as officers searched several buildings in the area under the supervision of SP Kataka and ASP Rugaju.
The recovered exhibits were taken to Central Police Station (CPS) for examination as investigations continue.
The operation follows growing complaints from motorists about the theft of detachable vehicle components, including side mirrors, lights and grilles, particularly in congested areas where vehicles are forced to slow down or stop.
Police are investigating how the suspected stolen components enter the spare-parts market, the possible distribution networks involved and whether some businesses are being used to alter identifying marks on vehicle parts.
Police have not established ownership of all the recovered exhibits, and investigations into the suspects’ alleged involvement are ongoing.