Mobile phone theft cases drop slightly as overall crime declines in 2024

The Uganda Police Force recorded 7,330 cases of mobile phone theft in 2024, a 1% decrease from the 7,407 cases reported in 2023. Most incidents involved snatching unsuspecting individuals, particularly in urban areas.

This decline is part of a broader 4.1% drop in overall crime, with total criminal cases falling from 228,074 in 2023 to 218,715 in 2024. General theft cases also saw a 6.6% decrease, dropping from 65,901 in 2023 to 61,529 in 2024.

Releasing the 2024 Annual Crime Report, Inspector General of Police AIGP Abas Byakagaba attributed the decline to the Sub-county Policing Model, which enhances crime prevention at the community level. He commended the public for actively reporting crimes, noting that community collaboration is crucial for effective policing.

Despite the decline, police emphasized that mobile phone theft remains widespread, especially in crowded public spaces. The Kampala Metropolitan Police (KMP) North recorded the highest number of cases (1,002), followed by KMP South (909), Rwizi (834), KMP East (542), and Greater Masaka (365).

Authorities urged the public to remain vigilant, especially in busy urban areas, and to report suspicious activity to help curb phone theft.