By BM
In a decisive strike against a rising wave of vehicle vandalism, Kampala Metropolitan Police have arrested nine suspects believed to be the masterminds behind the growing menace known as “jam theft” a criminal tactic that exploits Kampala’s notorious traffic jams to steal car parts.
On August 22, 2025, an intelligence-led joint operation by CPS Kampala and Jinja Road Police Division targeted key hotspots where “jam thieves” operate with alarming efficiency.
These areas include Shell Nakawa, Punjab, Rufura, Wampewo, and the Mukwano Roundabout stretch all locations where motorists often find themselves stuck in long queues during peak hours.
How Jam Thieves Work
“Jam theft” involves criminals taking advantage of slow-moving or stationary traffic to quickly approach vehicles, usually targeting luxury models like Toyota Harriers and Mercedes Benz.
These thieves operate with precision: while drivers are distracted or trapped in congestion, they swiftly vandalize cars and steal valuable parts such as side mirrors, front vents, and sometimes hubcaps.
The thieves often work in small groups, with some members creating distractions or surveying traffic flow while others carry out the thefts.
Their speed and coordination make it difficult for victims to react or for bystanders to intervene.
These quick, opportunistic crimes have frustrated motorists and fueled public outcry.
The police operation, based on weeks of intelligence gathering and community reports including numerous complaints on social media resulted in the arrest of nine suspects: Dan Makana, Stephen Kajubi, Stephen Owundo, Ibra Asiimwe, Isaac Kageni, Baba, Izo Bindusa, Dan, and Ibra.
Upon arrest, the suspects confessed to conducting multiple acts of theft and vandalism during traffic jams. They admitted to working as part of an organized network, cooperating with authorities to identify other criminals still at large, including suspects known as Musiramu and Juice (Bugolobi).
Currently detained at CPS Kampala, the suspects are undergoing fingerprinting, screening, and further investigation.
Kampala Metropolitan Police Deputy Public Relations Officer ASP Luke Owoyesigyire praised the success of the operation. “This arrest disrupts a dangerous criminal network that has been exploiting Kampala’s traffic congestion to steal from motorists,” he said. “Our intelligence-led approach will continue to focus on dismantling such syndicates and ensuring public safety.”
The police assure the public that further operations targeting “jam theft” hotspots will continue, especially around the Central Business District and other heavily congested areas.
Kampala residents have welcomed the arrests, hoping it signals an end to the frustration caused by these opportunistic criminals.
Motorists are urged to stay vigilant, avoid distractions during traffic jams, and report suspicious activity promptly.
The crackdown highlights the importance of community cooperation and proactive policing in tackling urban crime. As the investigation unfolds, police encourage anyone with information about remaining suspects or similar crimes to come forward.
With increased patrols and ongoing intelligence work, Kampala’s roads are expected to become safer for drivers who have long suffered from the predations of “jam thieves.” (For comments on this story, get back to us on 0705579994 [WhatsApp line], 0779411734 & 041 4674611 or email us at mulengeranews@gmail.com).
