Police unmask deadly robbery gang that stole over Shs557 million
During a media briefing at Naguru Police Headquarters, Uganda Police spokesperson ACP Kituuma Rusoke revealed that the gang had evolved into using weapons to execute their heists.
Police have released fresh details about the criminal activities of six gang members who were fatally shot last Monday during a foiled robbery in Kampala.
The suspects, identified as Hamis Muhamed, Sharif Lukwago, Michael Ssebakka, Fahad Katongole, Adam Tusabe, and a man known as Dad Easy, were gunned down while attempting to steal Shs300 million from a client who had just withdrawn cash from a bank on Acacia Avenue, Kololo.
During a media briefing at Naguru Police Headquarters, Uganda Police spokesperson ACP Kituuma Rusoke revealed that the gang had evolved into using weapons to execute their heists.
“The suspects are part of a larger gang that targets individuals carrying large sums of money. They have graduated from non-armed assaults like boxing and kicking victims into submission to using pangas and other tools,” Kituuma explained.
The gang’s criminal trail spans multiple robberies around Kampala, with cases recorded at various police stations. Kituuma highlighted key incidents, including:
- June 15, 2024: Shs394 million and $17,450 (approximately Shs64 million) stolen from an accountant in Nakawa.
- December 9, 2024: Shs57.4 million taken from a victim near Case Hospital along Buganda Road.
- December 10, 2024: Shs11 million stolen outside Kawempe KCCA Women’s Hospital.
- January 4, 2025: Shs30.7 million robbed from a businessman in Industrial Area.
The gang had collectively stolen more than Shs557 million in these operations, using their tactics to target victims outside banks, mobile money centers, and other money-serving outlets.
While police neutralized the group during the foiled robbery, the fatal shooting has sparked public debate, with critics questioning why the suspects were not apprehended and given a chance to defend themselves in court. The controversy led Internal Affairs Minister Gen Kahinda Otafiire and Inspector General of Police Abbas Byakagaba to issue a public apology during a parliamentary session last week.
Reiterating this apology, ACP Kituuma acknowledged the public concerns and pledged to investigate any excesses during the operation.
“As with all operations, things can go wrong. If there were any mistakes, we are committed to identifying them and providing remedies,” he stated.
Despite the controversy, Kituuma emphasized the danger posed by such criminal gangs.
“These groups are real, and people are being targeted. We urge the public to remain vigilant and report suspicious activities to the authorities.”
Police have assured the public that ongoing investigations will address the conduct of the operation and ensure accountability where necessary.
