Police in Kampala Metropolitan have arrested a suspected robber accused of targeting bank customers using motorcycles in coordinated thefts.
The suspect, identified as Wagaba Hussen, a 27-year-old man from Kayunga in Wakiso District, was arrested on Friday, March 6, 2026, following an attempted robbery in Najeera.
According to the Deputy Public Relations Officer for Kampala Metropolitan Police, ASP Luke Owoyesigyire, the incident occurred after the victim, Nakawomne Deborah, also aged 27, withdrew UGX 21 million from a bank in Ntinda.
Deborah reportedly hired a boda boda to transport her to her home in Buwaate. However, upon reaching Najeera, a few meters from the police station opposite Stabex fuel station, another motorcycle approached at high speed and the passenger attempted to snatch her bag containing the money.
“The victim raised an alarm, prompting police officers nearby to respond immediately,” ASP Owoyesigyire said.
Police managed to arrest the suspect who had grabbed the bag and recovered the entire UGX 21 million. However, the motorcycle rider who was transporting the suspect managed to escape due to heavy traffic, which made it unsafe for officers to pursue him at the time.
Owoyesigyire added that the arrested suspect is currently detained at Najjera Police Station as investigations continue, while efforts are underway to track down and arrest the accomplice who fled the scene.
Police have warned members of the public, especially bank customers, to remain vigilant when withdrawing large sums of money and to seek security assistance where possible.
