Police Dismantle Major Motorcycle Theft Ring in Kampala

Kampala police have successfully dismantled a motorcycle theft network operating in Ndeeba, arresting five individuals and recovering twelve suspected stolen motorcycles. The operation, described as a major breakthrough by Kampala Metropolitan Police spokesperson SP Rachael Kawala, was initiated following the theft of a motorcycle registered as UMA 330NR.

Investigators tracked the stolen motorcycle to Busabala, leading to the apprehension of Ivan Mugisha, 28, and David Kabanda, 25. The suspects allegedly intercepted the motorcycle to remove its tracking device. Their subsequent cooperation led police to Ndeeba, where the larger stash of stolen bikes and three additional suspects were found.

The modus operandi involved targeting newer motorcycles, transporting them to Ndeeba to remove tracking systems, and then selling them for approximately Shs 1.7 million each. The arrested individuals are also linked to theft cases reported across several other police stations in Kampala.

This operation highlights the increasing reliance on digital tracking technology, such as the Intelligent Transport Monitoring System (ITMS), in combating vehicle theft. While criminals attempt to circumvent these systems by dismantling bikes or altering their appearance, the ITMS allows law enforcement to trace and verify vehicles through digital records and real-time data.

Between January and July 2026, the ITMS facilitated the recovery of 203 stolen vehicles and 95 motorcycles. Police urge the public to report thefts immediately and provide proof of ownership to aid investigations. Deputy Kampala Metropolitan Police spokesperson, Luke Owoyesigyire, emphasized the importance of prompt reporting to enable quick police response and enhance the effectiveness of tracking technologies for interception and recovery.

https://observer.ug/news/police-bursts-kampala-motorcycle-theft-network-in-ndeeba