LIRA CITY, UGANDA – The territorial Police at Lira-City Central Police Station have dealt a significant blow to criminal networks terrorizing the city following a successful intelligence-led operation conducted overnight.
The operation, which ran from the night of August 25th through the morning of August 26th, 2026, targeted specific hideouts in the areas of Te-alok, Atego ward, Starch factory, and Tekulu ojwina. These locations had been identified as hotspots where thugs were regrouping after carrying out a series of attacks on residents.
According to police, the crackdown was necessitated by a growing public outcry over rising criminal activities in the affected neighborhoods, including housebreaking, theft, simple robbery, and phone snatching.
"Acting on actionable intelligence, our ground commanders moved in on the suspected dens," said SP Patrick Jimmy Okema, the Police Spokesperson for North Kyoga Region. "This operation was a direct response to the concerns raised by the community regarding the safety of their property and lives."
A total of 42 suspects were apprehended during the raid. Security forces also recovered a cache of incriminating exhibits that were being used to facilitate crime. The recovered items include:Opium (narcotic substance),Pangas (machetes),Four head spears,Aviation fuel (suspected to be used in arson or theft) and Knives
The suspects are currently being held in police custody. Authorities have confirmed that a joint screening exercise involving the local leadership is underway to determine the extent of each individual's involvement in the criminal activities.
Following the screening, case files will be compiled and submitted to the Resident Chief State Attorney for perusal and legal guidance. The suspects are expected to be produced in court on charges that will be guided by the State Prosecutor.
"We call for continued information sharing by members of the public to security forces," Okema added. "This partnership allows our ground commanders to plan and effect arrests proactively."
Police have reassured the residents of Lira City of their commitment to ensuring a crime-free society and have warned that similar operations will be extended to other areas to root out criminal elements.
