LIRA CITY, NORTH KYOGA (July 24, 2025) – In a significant response to escalating crime, the Territorial Police in Lira-City East Division conducted a major intelligence-led operation overnight, resulting in the arrest of approximately 75 suspects.
The operation, personally led by the Division Police Commander (DPC), targeted crime hotspots including Uhuru Bar, Central Park, Bal-Pe, and Akia between 11:00 PM on July 23rd and 5:00 AM on July 24th.
Police stated the raid was a direct response to intense public concern over a surge in criminal activities within the division.
Highlighted crimes driving the operation included rampant burglary, theft, housebreaking, motorcycle theft, and the open smoking of marijuana. Police specifically addressed the modus operandi of motorcycle thieves, who reportedly dismantle stolen bikes and reassemble them using unmatched spare parts and falsified number plates to obscure the identity of the stolen property and frustrate recovery efforts.
"The operation was highly successful," stated SP Patrick Jimmy Okema, the North Kyoga Regional Public Relations Officer, in an official release. Among those apprehended was one individual caught red-handed stealing metallic building materials, specifically iron bars, from the Akiibua Construction site.
All 75 individuals are currently undergoing screening procedures. Police confirmed that those found culpable after screening will be formally charged and arraigned in court.
SP Okema emphasized the effectiveness of the intelligence-led approach used. "We have proved that this approach is one of the best in handling criminality," he declared, issuing a call for continued and increased support from all community stakeholders. "We call for support from all stakeholders such that we can have a crime-free environment," Okema urged.
The statement concluded with a firm warning to criminals: "We shall continue with more operations." This signals the police's commitment to sustaining the pressure on criminal elements within Lira-City East Division following the significant haul from this overnight crackdown.
