OYAM DISTRICT – A covert police operation in Oyam District has led to the dramatic recovery of forty (40) suspected stolen motorcycle number plates, which were found buried in a banana plantation. The discovery was made after the suspected criminals allegedly received a tip-off and fled the scene.
According to a statement released by the North Kyoga Regional Police Spokesperson, SP Patrick Jimmy Okema, the intelligence-led operation was conducted on Tuesday, November 25, 2025.
Acting on credible intelligence, the District Police Commander (DPC) of Oyam and his team proceeded to the residence of one Ayen Calvine in Ajali Opoo Village, Adel Parish, Minakulu Sub-county.
Intelligence reports had indicated that an organized criminal group was using Calvine's residence as a base for dismantling and changing the number plates of suspected stolen motorcycles.
However, upon the police team's arrival at approximately 11:15 PM, the suspects and the motorcycles in question had already vanished.
"The suspected individuals and the motorcycles had already fled, suggesting that they had received prior information about the police operation and escaped before police arrival," stated SP Okema.
Undeterred, the police conducted a thorough search of the premises and the surrounding area in the presence of the local LC1 Chairperson and neighbors. The search yielded significant evidence:
· Forty (40) motorcycle number plates were discovered buried in a nearby banana plantation.
· A box containing spanners and other tools commonly used for dismantling vehicles.
· Three bundles of dried opium and other unspecified items linked to criminal activities.
A search certificate was duly issued at the scene.
SP Okema confirmed that no arrests have been made so far but assured the public that investigations are actively ongoing.
"No arrests have been made at this stage, but efforts to have [the suspects] apprehended are ongoing since some of them are known," he said.
The police have appealed to the public for cooperation, urging community members to "always liaise with security to have these goons arrested and face the law."
The recovery of the number plates is considered a significant breakthrough in combating motorcycle theft and related criminal activities in the North Kyoga Region. Police efforts are now focused on tracking down the fugitive suspects.
