Kampala’s crime wave reveal...
Kampala’s Crime Wave Reveals a Broken Order
Published: August 6, 2025 · ENS | Local News
Kampala is grappling with a sharp rise in violent crime, ranging from kidnappings and home invasions to street assaults and fraud. Law-abiding residents are increasingly vulnerable as criminal gangs grow bolder.
🔍 What’s Behind the Surge?
- Armed gangs are abducting and robbing citizens across the city—including areas like Nateete, Kawempe, Kireka, and Makindye. Victims are often beaten, stripped, and dumped far from home. (Chimpreports, Observer)
- Impersonators posing as security officers are arresting people based on fake warrants and demanding ransom payments. (Chimpreports)
- Neighborhoods such as Namuwongo and Kasanga are increasingly being labeled as “no-go zones” at night, even by former security personnel. (Nile Post, Reddit accounts)
👮 Police Response & Public Distrust
- Despite efforts by specialized units and crack teams, residents report slow response times and claim that some police officers are complicit in criminal activity. (Monitor, Nile Post)
- Systemic issues including underfunding, corruption, and political interference are weakening institutional security capacity. (Nile Post)
- Many fear arresting criminals due to bureaucratic delays, especially when cases require bribes or are delayed by police. (Reddit users)
- Night-time attacks are rising: Burglaries using tools like axes and pliers are increasing, notably in Nateete and Wakiso.
- Police task force activated: Kampala Metropolitan Police has deployed a specialized crackdown unit to counter the rise of organized gangs.
- Public sentiment: Online discussions reveal deep mistrust—many believe the police are either ineffective or actively enable crime. (Reddit commentary)
Kampala's current crime wave is exposing deep cracks in civic order, raising urgent questions about the effectiveness of law enforcement and the urgent need for broader social reform.
Sources: ENS Live Reports | Local Updates