news 15 August 2026 Daily Monitor (Uganda)
Wave of Brazen Muggings Leaves Ugandans in Fear
A surge in street robberies, highlighted by the tragic death of SC Villa captain David Owori, is raising alarm bells over public safety in Uganda's urban centers. Experts point to systemic issues in law enforcement and the judiciary as contributing factors. Source: https://www.monitor.co.ug/uganda/news/national/brazen-street-muggings-leave-many-panic-struck-5558638
Recent incidents of street muggings across Uganda, tragically including the death of SC Villa captain David Owori, have intensified public anxiety about safety in urban areas. Victims report being targeted by assailants in Kampala and surrounding regions, losing valuables such as phones and cash, often during evening and early morning hours.
The attack on Owori, who was robbed of his phone before his death, has brought renewed attention to the issue. Police have arrested suspects in connection with his murder and recovered several other stolen devices, suggesting a potential network of criminals. Investigations revealed one suspect in Owori’s case had prior robbery charges but was released from a remand home under unclear circumstances.
Security experts suggest that a combination of judicial loopholes and stretched police resources are exacerbating the problem. Grace Matsiko, chairman of The Uganda Private Security Association (TUPSA), noted that the judicial system often prioritizes procedural measures over prevention, leading to repeat offenders re-entering society. He also highlighted the police force’s insufficient logistics and intelligence-gathering tools, compounded by issues of corruption.
Private investigator Freddie David Egesa and former Deputy Inspector General of Police Julius Peter Ocur Odwee pointed to a lack of comprehensive youth engagement programs and prevailing poverty as underlying causes. They argue that insufficient planning for the nation’s youth, coupled with limited job opportunities and economic challenges, pushes many into criminal activities.
Despite these concerns, police spokesperson ACP Kituuma Rusoke stated there is no statistical evidence to confirm an increase in muggings, urging for data-backed claims. He assured the public that the police have increased patrols and are working to deter criminals, emphasizing the need for community cooperation.
The situation underscores a growing concern for public safety, with calls for strengthened community policing, visible law enforcement, and targeted operations against criminal elements to restore public confidence. Residents, like Sarah Nawetene from Mukono, share experiences of daytime and nighttime muggings, particularly in isolated areas, describing aggressive encounters when resisting.