security 24 April 2026
Uganda's promised firearm fingerprinting system, aimed at tracking guns used in crimes, has made little progress despite government pledges, sparking renewed debate after the killing of journalist Joe Nam. Experts highlight issues like fragmented databases, illicit arms, and lack of political will as key barriers to effective implementation. Source: https://www.monitor.co.ug/uganda/magazines/people-power/arrested-development-as-gun-fingerprinting-exercise-stalls-5435460
news 22 April 2026
Inspector General of Police Abbas Byakagaba has passed out 7,018 former Election Special Police Constables after specialized training, preparing them for deployment with private security organizations across Uganda. The program marks the largest such initiative by the Uganda Police Force to bolster national security through the private sector. Source: https://www.monitor.co.ug/uganda/news/national/over-7000-ex-election-police-constables-ready-for-private-security-deployment-5433022
news 22 April 2026
Uganda Revenue Authority (URA) claims to have seized over $10 million hidden in kitchenware cargo at Entebbe Airport, praising officer Enid Priscilla Katusiime for rejecting a Shs300 million bribe. Security agencies and airport officials report no knowledge of the incident, raising doubts about the handling and investigation of the case linked to Turkey. Source: https://www.monitor.co.ug/uganda/news/national/ura-s-10-million-dollar-recovery-raises-many-questions-5431976
security 20 April 2026
A UPDF sergeant, Jonas Mukundane, was killed in a shootout with suspected South Sudanese cattle rustlers in Yumbe district, alongside one unidentified raider. Security forces recovered a rifle and are pursuing the remaining suspects amid rising cross-border raids. Source: https://observer.ug/news/updf-sergeant-killed-in-shootout-with-suspected-cattle-rustlers-in-yumbe
crime 20 April 2026
Uganda Police arrested 29 suspects and seized 20 motorcycles during a targeted operation in Rubaga Division, Kampala, amid rising thefts of boda bodas. The robbers reportedly pose as passengers to ambush riders, with investigations ongoing. Source: https://www.monitor.co.ug/uganda/news/national/29-arrested-20-motorcycles-recovered-in-security-crackdown-5430614
security 20 April 2026
The Uganda Peoples Defence Forces (UPDF) has warned of conmen impersonating security personnel to scam investors through fake deals. Col Chris Magezi, Acting Director of Defence Public Information, urged vigilance and reporting of suspicious activities. Source: https://www.monitor.co.ug/uganda/news/national/updf-warns-of-security-impersonators-targeting-investors-5430290
security 20 April 2026
A UPDF sergeant leading an operation against suspected cattle raiders was killed alongside one of the suspects during a crossfire in Yumbe District's Kerwa Sub-county. The incident occurred after locals tipped off soldiers about armed men in the area. Source: https://www.monitor.co.ug/uganda/news/national/updf-sergeant-suspected-cattle-raider-killed-during-crossfire-in-yumbe-5430104
news 20 April 2026
Uganda's UPDF and DRC's FARDC jointly freed more than 200 civilians aged 14-19 from an ADF camp during a major offensive along River Epulu. The operation neutralized fighters, seized weapons, and underscores ongoing efforts to dismantle the militia. Source: https://www.monitor.co.ug/uganda/news/national/updf-says-over-200-civilians-rescued-from-adf-captivity-in-drc-5429694
crime 19 April 2026
Uganda Police, alongside army and KCCA teams, raided a Nakivubo Channel hideout, arresting 18 teenage suspects linked to robberies along Entebbe Road's Clock Tower stretch. The operation is part of a broader sweep detaining 118 youths aged 12-20 for muggings, phone snatches, and vehicle number plate thefts. Source: https://www.monitor.co.ug/uganda/news/national/teens-among-main-suspects-in-kampala-gang-crackdown-5429570
news 18 April 2026
Over 15 months after Police Constable Charles Bahati allegedly shot dead truck driver Julius Ssemwaka in Kampala, the suspect remains fugitive, eroding public trust in the Uganda Police Force. Contrasting this stalled hunt, authorities swiftly arrested a prison warder across the border for a separate deadly rampage. Source: https://www.monitor.co.ug/uganda/news/insight/case-files-tale-of-two-shootings-as-bahati-remains-at-large-5427134
crime 16 April 2026
Police have apprehended Justin Akena, a Magnum Security guard, in Bweyale for allegedly stealing Shs 29 million and 900 grams of gold worth Shs 500 million from a client's vehicle in Kamwokya. The suspect confessed and had used some proceeds to start a retail shop. Source: https://observer.ug/news/kamwokya-guard-who-stole-millions-gold-from-client-arrested-in-bweyale
crime 16 April 2026
Armed robbers assaulted a private security guard in Iganga Municipality early Wednesday, stealing his SAR rifle loaded with five rounds of ammunition. Police have launched a manhunt, recovered forensic evidence, and obtained CCTV footage amid rising robbery cases nationwide. Source: https://www.monitor.co.ug/uganda/news/national/iganga-security-guard-attacked-robbed-of-gun-in-dawn-raid-5426338
news 16 April 2026
A 28-year-old warrior from Kotido District surrendered his SMG firearm to a local Catholic priest following the impoundment of 107 cattle from his family amid investigations into a highway robbery. Police praised the voluntary disarmament and noted ongoing efforts to recover illegal guns in Karamoja. Source: https://www.monitor.co.ug/uganda/news/national/karimojong-warrior-surrenders-gun-to-church-5426116
news 16 April 2026
The Uganda People's Defence Forces have arrested Police Commissioner Michael Mugabi and his superior over a gold scam that defrauded a foreign investor of billions of shillings. Separately, three senior officers from Amuru Police Station face detention for allegedly aiding a South Sudanese national in laundering and smuggling US$200,500 out of Uganda via Elegu border. Source: https://www.monitor.co.ug/uganda/news/national/army-arrest-police-commissioner-three-senior-officers-5425464
news 15 April 2026
Uganda Police recovered an unloaded AK-47 rifle hidden in a passenger's luggage at Tausi Bus Terminal in Kampala, after a bus conductor's routine inspection uncovered the weapon. The suspect fled and remains at large as investigations proceed. Source: https://www.monitor.co.ug/uganda/news/national/police-recover-firearm-at-tausi-bus-terminal-in-kampala-5424306
Politics 15 April 2026
Uganda's shift to privatised services like schools, hospitals and churches has boosted access but exposed users to risks due to inconsistent security standards. Experts call for a national framework to enforce minimum protections and proactive measures. Source: https://www.monitor.co.ug/uganda/oped/letters/privatisation-without-protection-are-ugandans-truly-safe-in-private-hands--5424260
crime 13 April 2026
Police are hunting Justin Akena, a Magnum Security guard, who allegedly stole over Shs 290 million in cash and gold from a vehicle at Goldex Global Company in Kampala's Kamwokya area. The Flying Squad is working with the security firm to track him down amid rising insider thefts in the sector. Source: https://observer.ug/news/kamwokya-security-guard-vanishes-with-shs-290m-gold
news 13 April 2026
Security leaders in Apac district have rejected notions of a planned machete assault on Apac Seed Secondary School students, blaming the Easter Sunday clash on rule-breaking pupils who sneaked out to a local disco. Seven students suffered severe injuries from fights with nearby youth, prompting arrests and calls for better school security. Source: https://observer.ug/news/authorities-downplay-apac-school-panga-attack-cite-student-indiscipline
crime 13 April 2026
A joint security operation has arrested 11 suspects in the shooting death and robbery of Soroti mobile money dealer Patricia Kokunda, recovering key evidence including the murder weapon and Shs10.5 million in stolen cash. Investigations reveal a detailed plan orchestrated since January, with hideouts busted across multiple districts. Source: https://www.monitor.co.ug/uganda/news/national/how-murder-of-soroti-businesswoman-was-planned-5421458
crime 12 April 2026
East Kyoga police have retrieved an AK-47 rifle linked to the killing of Patricia Kokunda, a mobile money agent shot dead in Soroti on April 3, 2026. Five suspects are in custody, with key recoveries including stolen cash and the victim's phone. Source: https://observer.ug/news/police-recover-gun-used-in-soroti-mobile-money-agent-murder
Politics 11 April 2026
Security forces have banned all political slogans, symbols, and alterations on kits for the 2026 Kabaka’s Birthday Run in Kampala, marking the Kabaka’s 71st birthday. Strict measures, including undercover operatives and traffic diversions, are in place to ensure a peaceful, health-focused event amid past politicization concerns. Source: https://observer.ug/news/police-bans-bobi-wine-slogans-from-kabakas-birthday-run
news 11 April 2026
Authorities in Kampala have ramped up security measures ahead of the 2026 Kabaka Birthday Run on April 12, collaborating with military and Buganda Kingdom officials to protect thousands of participants. The event emphasizes HIV prevention, good health, and protecting the girl child, with calls for testing and fidelity from kingdom leaders. Source: https://www.monitor.co.ug/uganda/news/national/security-in-kampala-heightened-ahead-of-kabaka-s-birthday-run-5419896
crime 10 April 2026
Armed youth gangs in Kitimbwa Sub-County, Kayunga District, have attacked villagers, raided shops, and looted goods, leaving three injured and sparking widespread fear. Police have arrested 13 suspects and recovered weapons as investigations continue. Source: https://www.monitor.co.ug/uganda/news/national/machete-wielding-gangs-cause-panic-in-kayunga-5419096
crime 10 April 2026
Uganda Police's Chief Political Commissariat Director Ubaldo Bamunoba has called for stronger ties between officers, local leaders, and residents in Kigezi following five killings in Kisoro and Rukungiri districts. He also announced welfare programs for officers' families to boost financial stability. Source: https://www.monitor.co.ug/uganda/news/national/police-urge-community-partnership-after-five-killed-in-kigezi-5418742
Technology 8 April 2026
IT specialists in Uganda warn that online fraudsters are deploying advanced tricks on social platforms. They share practical steps to help users stay secure and avoid falling victim. Source: https://www.monitor.co.ug/uganda/news/national/online-security-essential-steps-to-outsmart-social-media-fraudsters-5417202
news 7 April 2026
UNICEF has condemned recent violent attacks on schools in Ggaba, Kampala, and Apac district, where four toddlers were killed and seven students injured, urging swift measures to protect children. The organization is offering psychosocial support and partnering with authorities to bolster child protection in educational settings. Source: https://observer.ug/news/unicef-demands-urgent-action-after-kampala-apac-school-attacks
news 7 April 2026
Uganda's CID Director AIGP Tom Magambo has called for societal value reforms starting from children and institutional changes to address rapidly evolving crime trends. He highlighted a 10.2% crime drop in 2025 while pushing for further reductions and better police infrastructure. Source: https://www.monitor.co.ug/uganda/news/national/cid-boss-calls-for-reforms-to-tackle-crime-5415756
security 5 April 2026
Ugandan joint security teams recovered two guns in the Karamoja region on Easter Sunday. They also seized nine heads of cattle from a suspect linked to the incident. Source: https://www.monitor.co.ug/uganda/news/national/security-recovers-two-guns-in-karamoja-on-easter-sunday-5414184
crime 3 April 2026
A man posing as a parent killed four toddlers at Ggaba Early Childhood Development Program School in Makindye, Kampala, exposing critical lapses in school security measures. The incident underscores the necessity for strict adherence to government guidelines amid ongoing concerns over child safety in educational facilities. Source: https://www.monitor.co.ug/uganda/oped/editorial/we-need-to-pay-heed-to-school-security-guidelines-5412482
security 3 April 2026
Suspected ADF rebels killed at least 43 civilians in a brutal attack on Bafwakao village in Ituri Province's Mambasa Territory, eastern DRC, destroying homes and vehicles. The incident has drawn criticism of the military's delayed response amid a surge in rebel violence. Source: https://observer.ug/news/adf-rebels-kill-43-civilians-in-drc
Politics 3 April 2026
Uganda's Ministry of Internal Affairs, led by Gen. Kahinda Otafiire, has requested Shs46 billion to enhance staffing at border points amid ongoing security challenges. The plea came during a presentation to Parliament's Committee on Defence and Internal Affairs on March 31, 2026. Source: https://www.parliament.go.ug/index.php/news/4379/internal-affairs-ministry-seeks-shs46-billion-staffing-borders
news 3 April 2026
A knife attack at a Ggaba daycare centre by 39-year-old Christopher Okello Onyup killed four toddlers, reigniting concerns over child safety in Uganda amid a global surge in school violence. Experts highlight patterns from rebel assaults in Africa to frequent US shootings, urging stronger security measures. Source: https://www.monitor.co.ug/uganda/news/national/uganda-shaken-by-attack-as-global-school-violence-persists--5412032
news 2 April 2026
Suspected ADF rebels killed at least 43 civilians in Bafwakao village, Ituri Province, eastern DR Congo, burning 44 houses, a dump truck, and five motorcycles during a nighttime assault. FARDC has condemned the attack and intensified operations, amid criticism from locals over delayed response. Source: https://www.monitor.co.ug/uganda/news/national/adf-rebels-kill-43-in-dr-congo-village-attack-5411956
Politics 1 April 2026
Uganda's Ministry of Internal Affairs, led by Gen. Kahinda Otafiire, has requested Shs46 billion to increase personnel at border points amid staffing shortages. The plea was made during a presentation to Parliament's Committee on Defence and Internal Affairs on March 31, 2026. Source: https://www.parliament.go.ug/news/4379/internal-affairs-ministry-seeks-shs46-billion-staffing-borders
world 31 March 2026
Iran's attacks on ships in the Strait of Hormuz have triggered a global fuel crisis, but the US under President Trump has not used military force to secure the vital oil route. Experts point to Iran's geographic edge with cheap drones and vessels, plus high risks and diversion from core war goals as key barriers. Source: https://www.monitor.co.ug/uganda/news/world/strait-of-hormuz-why-hasn-t-trump-used-force-to-secure-it--5409616
crime 31 March 2026
Moses Anguyo, the fugitive prison warder accused of killing four people at Kiboga Prisons, was arrested in Aru town, DRC, through a joint Ugandan-Congolese operation and extradited to Uganda. He now faces murder charges after a Shs 10 million bounty aided his capture. Source: https://observer.ug/news/fugitive-kiboga-prison-warder-arrested-in-drc-faces-murder-charges
crime 31 March 2026
Uganda recorded an average of 25 deaths per day in 2025 from murders and road crashes, with 4,328 homicides and 5,383 traffic fatalities, according to the CID annual crime report. While overall crime dropped by 10.2 percent, road deaths rose slightly amid fewer total crashes. Source: https://observer.ug/news/crime-report-25-ugandans-die-daily-in-murders-road-crashes
security 27 March 2026
Suspected attackers armed with pangas and arrows injured three residents and burned multiple homes in Apaa Township amid heavy rain, prompting a security investigation in the disputed border area. Local leaders blame criminal gangs exploiting land tensions, as fear grips the community. Source: https://www.monitor.co.ug/uganda/news/national/arrow-panga-wielding-attackers-injure-three-burn-homes-in-apaa-5405068
Politics 25 March 2026
Diplomatic friction between Rwanda and the Democratic Republic of Congo has intensified after the DRC accused Rwandan agents of trying to enter First Lady Denise Nyakeru Tshisekedi's hotel room in Washington, D.C., during her U.S. visit. Rwanda rejected the claims, calling them a distortion of a minor hallway encounter amid ongoing rebel conflicts in eastern DRC. Source: https://observer.ug/news/tensions-rise-between-rwanda-and-drc-over-hotel-security-incident-in-us
crime 23 March 2026
Uganda Police have arrested 78 suspected criminals linked to a surge in robberies along the Kampala Northern Bypass, where road repairs have caused heavy traffic jams. The operations target gangs exploiting the Namungoona-Bwaise section, with recovered items including multiple smartphones. Source: https://observer.ug/news/northern-bypass-robberies-78-suspected-thugs-arrested
Politics 22 March 2026
Uganda's Office of the Director of Public Prosecutions and Police Force have flagged issues with the Forensic and Scientific Analytical Services Bill, 2025, citing risks of institutional overlaps and delays in criminal justice. They argue it duplicates existing laws and undermines specialized agency functions. Source: https://observer.ug/news/dpp-police-raise-concerns-over-proposed-forensic-law
crime 22 March 2026
Armed gangs on boda bodas and on foot are targeting motorists and pedestrians in traffic jams along the Kampala-Masaka highway, especially in the Busega-Kyengera area. Police have arrested four suspects and recovered stolen phones after a businesswoman reported her bag snatched. Source: https://www.monitor.co.ug/uganda/news/national/kampala-masaka-highway-robberies-return-5399468
world 18 March 2026
The United States is evaluating military reinforcements in the Middle East as the conflict with Iran potentially enters a new phase. Options under consideration include securing the Strait of Hormuz and other strategic measures. Source: https://www.monitor.co.ug/uganda/news/world/us-weighs-military-reinforcements-as-iran-war-enters-possible-new-phase-5396014
crime 16 March 2026
Authorities in Arua City arrested 31-year-old Rose Ederu after discovering over 100 kilograms of marijuana in her possession, intended for transport to Kampala via bus. The interception followed a tip-off at a bus terminal, highlighting ongoing drug trafficking issues in the region. Source: https://observer.ug/news/woman-arrested-with-over-100kgs-of-marijuana-in-arua
crime 16 March 2026
Authorities in eastern Uganda have detained five young men from Soroti District suspected of trying to rob a motorcyclist on the Soroti-Moroto Road. The arrests came swiftly after the victim escaped and alerted police, who recovered weapons from the scene. Source: https://www.monitor.co.ug/uganda/news/national/five-arrested-over-suspected-road-robberies-along-soroti-moroto-road-5393002
news 16 March 2026
Uganda Police, alongside cattle owners and leaders in Kiruhura and Kazo, have agreed to create a database of habitual livestock thieves and boost patrols to combat surging thefts fueled by urban beef demand. Additional steps include stricter movement permits and crackdowns on illegal meat sales. Source: https://www.monitor.co.ug/uganda/news/national/security-to-develop-database-of-habitual-livestock-thieves-5392470
news 14 March 2026
Crime rates in Uganda, including burglaries, motorcycle thefts, and street robberies, double during the rainy season compared to dry months due to poor visibility, noise cover, and reduced patrols. Security experts recommend CCTV and alarms to counter the surge. Source: https://www.monitor.co.ug/uganda/news/insight/surge-in-crime-explained-it-never-rains-but-it-pours-5390588
Politics 13 March 2026
Uganda's military rejects allegations in a UN human rights report accusing the UPDF of bombing civilians in South Sudan alongside government forces. The UPDF highlights its disciplined peacekeeping history and vital role in averting regional catastrophe. Source: https://www.monitor.co.ug/uganda/oped/commentary/un-south-sudan-report-the-blackmail-propaganda-therein-5390514
Politics 13 March 2026
Uganda's Public Accounts Committee has criticized police for allegedly demanding Shs200,000 from citizens for canine services during investigations, despite claims the service is free. This comes as Deputy IGP James Ochaya reported a 10.3% drop in crime cases from 218,725 in 2024 to 196,155 in 2025. Source: https://www.parliament.go.ug/news/4295/pac-faults-police-over-charges-canine-services
Business 13 March 2026
Women are proving their competence in private security roles across Uganda, from bodyguarding to risk assessment, yet face ongoing structural challenges. Greater support and inclusion can boost the industry's capacity amid rising demand. Source: https://www.monitor.co.ug/uganda/oped/commentary/women-like-men-are-more-than-able-to-thrive-in-private-security-support-them-5389764
Politics 12 March 2026
Nine Ugandan police officers assigned to protect opposition leader Bobi Wine have been charged with disobedience and neglect of duty for failing to account for his disappearance from home after the elections. The Police Disciplinary Unit recommends their dismissal, though the police spokesperson claims no knowledge of the matter. Source: https://www.monitor.co.ug/uganda/news/national/bobi-wine-s-bodyguards-face-dismissal-from-police-5389470
national 17 February 2026
The Uganda People’s Defence Force has trained 45 Somali National Army soldiers in organic support weapons over a month, aiming to enhance their fight against Al-Shabaab in Lower Shabelle. Officials praised the graduates' discipline and urged them to share skills for stronger regional security. Source: https://www.howwe.ug/news/national/42477/updf-trains-45-somali-soldiers-to-strengthen-security-in-lower-shabelle