In a joint operation, the police and army have successfully apprehended 20 suspected vandals accused of causing damage to road furniture along the Northern bypass. The strategic operation involved the deployment of covert personnel, later reinforced by uniformed police officers and soldiers in the Masanafu and Busega areas—hotspots where the highest incidents of vandalism have been recorded.

The targeted road furniture includes road guards, security camera poles, and signposts, which have suffered significant damage due to the illegal activities of these vandals. The operation kicked off with the apprehension of Umar Kitimbo, a key figure in the vandalism activities. Kitimbo not only confessed to his involvement but also cooperated with investigators by providing crucial information leading to the identification of his accomplices.

During interrogation, Kitimbo implicated Jonan Abigaba, an employee of Katooke Metal Scrap, revealing, “We sell whatever we vandalize to these people. Some of our colleagues are Lubigi, and Abigaba knows them.” This revelation triggered further collaborative efforts between the police and military to apprehend additional suspects involved in the illicit operation.

Among those detained are individuals identified as Obedi, Eric Sanyu, John Obama, Junior Ainembazi, Bashir Kalangi, Wilson Muhumuza, and Rashid Mpugu. The arrests mark a significant breakthrough in curbing the escalating incidents of road furniture vandalism in the targeted areas.

The collaborative efforts between law enforcement agencies have not only led to the identification and apprehension of the suspects but have also uncovered potential connections to scrap metal businesses, shedding light on the illicit trade of the vandalized items. Investigations are ongoing to ascertain the full extent of the vandalism network and bring all involved parties to justice.