Authorities in Albertine and Kagadi have apprehended seven members of a criminal gang responsible for a spate of armed robberies and attacks that have troubled residents in Kagadi district over the last couple of months.
This arrest comes after the police, alongside the UPDF, carried out a targeted operation in Muhorro town council. The operation led to the recovery of an AK-47 gun, a magazine containing four rounds of ammunition, and six sets of military camouflage clothing from the premises where the gang members had been residing.
Among the six suspects in custody, the group was reportedly headed by Pte Kato Ivan, a 34-year-old army deserter, and included other individuals from various areas such as Kyenjojo, Fortportal, and Kagadi districts. Their operations were primarily conducted in Kagadi district, utilizing Service Point Bar as their gathering point and planning zone before and after their criminal activities. The suspects allegedly had the support and involvement of the bar owner, using the establishment as a hideout.
The recovered firearms and ammunition have been handed over to ballistic experts for examination to ascertain potential connections to other ballistic hits. Authorities are also broadening their investigation to determine if there were additional victims targeted by this gang.
The arrest of these suspects and the seizure of critical evidence underscores the authorities’ firm commitment in the battle against violent armed criminals. Law enforcement is optimistic that this apprehension will contribute to reinstating order and tranquility in Kagadi district, alleviating the fear caused by the criminal activities in the area.
